Intellectual Humility: Simplicity Triumphs

Intellectual humility is something very significant. Because after all, most people act in line with how they think, right? However, most of us have met at least one person who is proud of both mind and heart, someone who shows little or no humility simply because they do not understand the importance of it. This may make us think about how it comes about that this type of egocentricity is so widespread. Have you ever thought about this?

This is not insignificant. It is becoming more and more common for people to think that their opinion is the only one that should be respected. As a consequence, we all find it harder to apologize and admit that we have made a mistake and could have done things differently. The interesting thing here is that these egos are everywhere around us, not just on social media.

Let us study an example of this situation. Just over a year ago, psychologists from the Max Planck Institute for Human Development came to a striking result. They had a suggestion that they aimed at all scientific communication: that researchers should come up with a written apology in response to all the studies that have proven to be incorrect or invalid.

According to Dr. Julia M. Rohrer (the initiator of this idea), the lack of intellectual humility is a cultural factor. It is so ingrained in our patterns and behaviors that someone now has to start setting a good example.

The importance of intellectual humility

Have you ever been frustrated when someone refused to change even after they were obviously completely wrong? We have all been through this once or twice. Now think about the last time you realized that you yourself had made a mistake and could admit it. How long ago was it? Or is it something you usually do?

Admittedly, it is quite difficult for people to become aware of their mistakes. We are all ignorant in some areas. In fact, this is perfectly normal and it should not be so difficult to admit our mistakes. But as we mentioned above, our culture urges us to seem invincible. Of course, this intellectual infallibility leaves no room for adversity or to acknowledge our failures.

In fact, change is sometimes considered a negative thing. It is as if people were not allowed to change their values, their opinions or their beliefs. We must remain the same throughout our lives. If someone dares to change the way they think, they are no longer coherent and consistent. Of course, this could not be more wrong. Everyone has the right to change as a result of experience and maturity.

To acknowledge ignorance

“The only true wisdom is to know that you know nothing,” Socrates said. “The human plague is a knowledgeable attitude. That is why ignorance is so recommended by our religion, as a quality suitable for faith and obedience, ”proclaimed Michel de Montaigne in the 16th century. Most philosophers have been aware of the importance of what we call intellectual humility.

That being said, intellectual humility is a great virtue to show because it reminds us that mistakes made do not mean the end of the world. Ultimately, it’s okay to consider the opinions of others. It is also important to remember our own shortcomings and weaknesses. But is it even possible to always be aware of them?

Not really, because the brain can not perceive them. In other words, it’s hard to see all those prejudices because of our mental rigidity. Believe it or not, but no matter how open-minded a person is, there are always contradictions, insecurities and conflicting opinions that are not easy to admit to oneself.

Mark Leary, a social and personality psychologist at Duke University, points out an important aspect. Ignorance is invisible. We rarely see it in ourselves. If we ever do, it’s hard to admit. Acknowledging our mistakes is easier said than done. On the other hand, people with intellectual humility have no problem paying attention to their faults and shortcomings. Doing so facilitates progress, learning and even cognitive development.

Simplicity is an intellectual virtue

Some virtues pass unnoticed but have the remarkable ability to make the world a better place. Somehow, people with excessive self-confidence and arrogance, those who act infallibly and inflexibly in front of others, always attract the most attention. It is as if they were carrying a banner that says, “I know everything and I am never wrong.”

And this could not be further from the truth. They have been wrong and will continue to be wrong in many different aspects. It is important to remember that those who do not realize their mistakes are doomed to repeat them. But those who have enough emotional and intellectual humility can acknowledge their mistakes and move on on the path to recovery.

In short, simplicity is an intellectual virtue, for it can defeat our selfishness and lead to social and emotional health. As a result, prejudices fall short compared to flexibility and understanding. Intellectual humility is more important now than ever. Let the work of advocating it continue.