Defining the Characteristics of Wisdom

How do we define wisdom? A recent study reveals that across diverse cultures, people identify the wisest individuals as those who are both logical and empathetic

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Good News Network

People across various cultures and countries view the wisest members of society as logical, reflective and considerate of others’ feelings and perceptions – this is according to a new study examining how wisdom is perceived as a trait across 16 vastly different world cultures.

Aiming to create a detailed blueprint of wise behaviour and character, researchers from the University of Waterloo, Canada, studied perceptions of wisdom across 12 countries and five continents. The study included over 2,000 participants from diverse socio-economic and cultural groups. Participants compared 10 individuals—such as scientists, politicians and teachers—facing a difficult real-life decision with no clear right or wrong answer. They then rated the wisdom of these individuals and themselves.

Researchers explored the principles behind how we perceive wisdom in political leaders, scientists, and everyday life. Across cultures, participants’ judgments aligned on two key traits: reflective thinking and socio-emotional awareness.

Reflective orientation encompasses traits like logical thinking, emotional control and applying knowledge. Socio-emotional awareness involves caring for others’ feelings and being attentive to social context.

“Interestingly, our participants considered themselves inferior to most exemplars of wisdom in regard to reflective orientation but were less self-conscious when it comes to socio-emotional characteristics,” said Dr. Maksim Rudnev, a postdoctoral research associate in psychology at Waterloo and lead author. “Understanding perceptions of wisdom around the world has implications for leadership, education, and cross-cultural communication. It is the first step in understanding universal principles in how others perceive wisdom people in different contexts.”