commit 18bce1c7d249bf522dcf2b66edacfe658a505b7f
parent c5ed1768c8239c93ddf0abdd5bf810f863b384aa
Author: Wim Dupont <wim@wimdupont.com>
Date: Sun, 20 Mar 2022 09:47:55 -0400
added Knowledge, ignorance, and ego
Diffstat:
1 file changed, 54 insertions(+), 0 deletions(-)
diff --git a/pages/blog/Knowledge, ignorance, and ego.adoc b/pages/blog/Knowledge, ignorance, and ego.adoc
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+*"Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance." - Confucius*
+
+During everyday conversation or discussion, instead of learning new viewpoints,
+we are oftentimes thinking of responses or counterproposals while the other is
+still speaking. We are too busy trying to convince or persuade the other, or,
+whilst talking, too busy trying to flatter ourselves that we're not having a
+conversation at all. Both conversationalists are busy with their own thoughts.
+Because of this, we are essentially neglecting the opportunity to gain knowledge
+by trying to come off as knowledgeable, or even worse, by trying to be "right".
+
+Being open-minded is a popular and positive attitude that helps in conversation.
+It attempts to set aside your own beliefs and ego to, instead, be fully engaged
+in the other's ideas and perspectives. However, we seldom think of ourselves as
+ignorant, and are often fast to believe to be adept in the practice of
+open-mindedness. But, when we reflect on all of our current beliefs, are we
+truly always considering counterarguments? We probably can think of several
+occasions where we have let our open-mindedness slip. This, like many things in
+life, is not something we will ever fully master, it is rather an attitude that
+requires continuous attention and practice.
+
+*"When the student is ready, the teacher appears."*
+
+All of this is closely related to one's ego. Ego is something that is always
+lurking nearby, and it can easily alter your attitude if you're unaware of its
+presence. The wisest thing you can do is to set your pride aside and be open, as
+well as make yourself vulnerable, to new ideas. We will always remain students,
+so be mindful of your ego, be mindful of your ignorance, and try to learn from
+every opportunity.
+
+We should, however, not blindly believe everything one says, not even when the
+other is more knowledgeable on the subject. Their wisdom is no proof of their
+truthfulness. Also, we should not be ignorant, and, instead, apply this
+skepticism to ourselves as well. Be careful with the information that is given,
+but also revise the knowledge you've accepted to be true. Don't be afraid to
+question your beliefs.
+
+You will never be completely certain on most of your opinions, but this is not
+really needed. You can still remain decisive without certainty. Having set
+principles or values to live by is extremely helpful in this regard. But, know
+that being decisive does not mean that you have the all right answers nor have
+full knowledge of the matter.
+
+Having said all of this, let's put into practice the following quote:
+
+*“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” - Marcus
+Aurelius*
+
+Just as buying books does not make you a reader, and getting a promotion does
+not make you a manager, gained knowledge does not make you a scholar. You're
+still the same you, the purchase, promotion, or wisdom did not change you. You
+still have to put in the work. The best way to convince yourself or others of
+who or what you are is not by talk, but by action. If you wish to inspire
+people, do not talk about how productive you are, do not talk about how wise you
+are, let them see it for themselves.
