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47 - Intelligence and Wisdom

from Part VIII - Intelligence and Allied Constructs

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 December 2019

Robert J. Sternberg
Affiliation:
Cornell University, New York
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Summary

This chapter reviews both the empirical evidence and the prevalent theoretical positions on the relationship between wisdom and intelligence. In short, wisdom includes aspects of intelligence but is far more than “just” intelligence. Wisdom integrates the ability to think about complex issues in a complex way with certain personality facets such as openness to experience and empathy with others, motivational facets such as a deep curiosity about the fundamental questions of the human existence, and a willingness to critically reflect upon oneself, and ethical facets, such as a concern for a greater good that is strong enough to overrule more egoistical or self-enhancing goals. Together, these different components lead individuals to acquire a strong body of broad and deep knowledge about the human existence that makes these individuals a source of advice on how to live a good life.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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