A knowledge economy alternative: what if we pursued something more profound (and peaceful)?

The case for a wisdom-centric world.

In part 2 of this series, The Human Pickle, we considered how knowledge serves us, but also how we’ve become a slave to it. To understand this, we looked at the origins and evolution of knowledge over time, and extrapolated this forward to notice the likely damage to our people and planet if our pursuit of knowledge continued, unchecked.

But we also hinted at another way. A human existence based on something far more significant, substantial, and—most importantly—sustainable. In this article, we present the idea of a wisdom-centric world. One that prioritises truth, impact and long-term satisfaction over the accumulation of information for short-term gratification.

Now, I don’t want to risk this getting too conceptual. So, to ground this potential future and make the vision practical, this article offers insight, imagination and descriptions for how things might actually pan out—in detail. We take cues from existing wisdom cultures, applying their evidence to a modern, global world. And later, just as we did with knowledge, we examine what all of this would take; the inevitable cost-benefit of switching to a new model for living, as well as making a living.

I do want to start by acknowledging that there is already much wisdom in the world. But wisdom is a value that, at present, is not the priority of many dominating cultures. In particular:

Our entire economic system—the global order, if you will—still moves in response to a survival-driven state of being. Under this mentality, ‘information is life’ and knowledge attainment is placed on a pedestal, over its ethical use and application.

Even if, in theory, we liked the idea of a wisdom-centric world, as long as we continue operating under the present paradigm, our hand will be forced to choose otherwise—to stick with the status quo. Hence why we need to consider new ways of living and being, including a new mentality in addition to an economic model. Is it possible to throw money out, as a construct, altogether?

As we consider these questions, we need to remember that knowledge consumption is not a means for survival; it’s an addiction. That’s why choosing to pursue wisdom, and longtermism, requires more than a rational argument—it requires breaking up with our obsession.

Only an identity shift will lead to the required evolution and humanity’s ascension. And, in this process of death and rebirth, we’ll be forced to confront some hard truths about ourselves and what we think we know. As stated by Oriah Mountain Dreamer in The Invitation:

“Wisdom will stretch us far beyond where we thought we could or wanted to go. She will show us what we cannot change or control, reveal what is hard to know about ourselves and the world, and tear at the illusions of what we think we know, until we are surrounded by the vastness of the mystery.”

The path won’t be easy, but it may be the best (and only) chance we have.

Important distinctions.

That make all the difference.

Unlike the relentlessness of a knowledge quest, wisdom asks us to slow down, digest and reflect. Wisdom encourages us to do more than know; to understand. And it requires that we apply this understanding with ethical consideration and discernment.

Before we present the case for a wisdom-centric world, let’s distinguish between these concepts and how they play out. Below are some noteworthy differences between knowledge and wisdom, each demonstrating how a minor nuance makes a profound difference in our resulting strategies and actions.

Source

Knowledge is acquired from learning, which means it follows a linear progression, where one piece of information builds on the next. Wisdom is gained through experience. Not only is it multidimensional and multidirectional, it’s also embodied, proven and includes an awareness of blind spots (that knowledge doesn’t).

Scope

Knowledge is often specialised and, because of this, is useful for answering specific questions but risks creating narrow-mindedness. Wisdom relies on integration, thereby recognising patterns, trends, complexities and synergies that arise from interconnectedness. It’s therefore more relevant for solving systemic problems, like those we face today.

Focus

Knowledge focuses on accumulation, which means it often sacrifices depth for breadth. Wisdom is concerned with decision making, in particular those that aren’t just smart, but also true and right. In a world where we’re bombarded with data, it teaches us the art of filtration to pinpoint what’s truly important.

Application

Knowledge is mostly fact-based, discounting and disregarding many valuable pieces of information that are non-scientific. Wisdom doesn’t discriminate based on information source. Wisdom is wisdom, no matter where it comes from. So, not only does it offer more perspective, it leads to wider and more meaningful use.

Outcome

Knowledge’s chief aim is to inform. Both the processing of the information and the outcome of it are irrelevant to its definition, and must be added as a consideration / caveat. Since wisdom seeks to guide (action), it considers the most effective technique for conveying (process) the results (outcome) of information. Wisdom is far more useful than knowledge in creating a vision or moving toward a goal.

A wisdom-centric world.

What would it look like?

To illustrate the above, let’s consider some real-world scenarios. How might a wisdom-based approach apply to our day-to-day decision making? Since we live in a capitalist world, and many of our decisions are driven by money, I’ve taken care below to select examples that showcase financial impact, as well as personal / societal.

Business

Where a knowledge-focused leader might prioritise profit and efficiency, being guided purely by market trends and data, a wisdom-focused leader would also consider the long-term impact of his / her decisions on employees, the environment, and society at large—leading to more ethical and sustainable business practices.

This leader would understand that such an approach builds trust and loyalty, not just with staff, but with consumers and the market. They’d know these are the top indicators of lasting business success, resulting in personal peace-of-mind, a positive work culture, and an empowered society they participated in creating.

Technology

Where a knowledge-focused tech company might prioritise the creation of new products, being driven purely by innovation and invention, a wisdom-focused tech company would place importance on the development and implementation of those technologies.

They’d consider ethical implications and data privacy to avoid harm and misuse, as they recognise the far-reaching consequences on security, social dynamics and inequality. Again, they’d know these things are all likely to impact their long-term success, both as a business (more able, loyal customers) and a human on this planet (participation in an empowered society they helped create).

Education

Where a knowledge-focused school might reward students for reciting facts and figures, a wisdom-focused school would see past this—looking instead for critical thinking, ethical reasoning, emotional intelligence and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios.

They’d prepare students not just for academic success, but for life as a responsible, thoughtful citizen. And they’d understand their own contribution to fostering a generation capable of making wise decisions, in a world of complex problems. Once again, they’d see the benefit, both to their business (raising leaders and change-makers, not just academics) and their personal life (participation in an empowered society they helped create), long term.

Health

Where a knowledge-focused doctor might treat a patient according to their symptoms, a wisdom-focused doctor would apply a more holistic perspective to understand the root cause of the illness. Such a doctor would consider the patient’s overall well-being, lifestyle and mental health, being willing to draw on other fields / experts if the problems were chronic or systemic (instead of applying a band-aid solution).

While such an approach may mean less visits (i.e. less sales) for the doctor, it would earn the respect of patients, resulting in more return visits and even referrals. Loyal customers are less price-sensitive and less likely to switch. So, even though the doctor is seeing fewer patients, they are making more from each visit; not to mention, spending less on new customer acquisition. A better business model and a more meaningful life, in theory*.

*This scenario assumes zero intervention or compensation by governments. At present, most medical practices are subsidised according to the number of patients they see (i.e. based on output, over outcome). For this scenario to work, we’d have to rethink how medical institutions are incentivised.

Personal finance

Where a knowledge-focused individual might make investment decisions based on the latest market data, a wisdom-focused individual would also consider underlying trends affecting the future of their investments, the ethics underpinning them and flow-on effects of their money.

They’d align their financial goals with their personal values and broader societal welfare because they see the interconnectedness. They know they’re voting with their dollars and that what they vote for determines the world they live in. Better financial position, better quality of life, long-term. If not for them, then for their children.

Media

Where a knowledge-focused media company might indiscriminately create, consume and share large volumes of information, a wisdom-based media company would critically evaluate its news sources, take care to showcase diverse perspectives and reflect on the broader implications of what it discloses.

In the race to rank on Google, it would not succumb to spreading misinformation. And it would welcome feedback / corrections, in a commitment to upholding well-rounded opinions that reduce bias and protect against manipulation. As is the case with all other examples, this is a more sustainable business model in the long run, even if it means sacrificing revenue in the short run. Plus, it contributes to the kind of society most of us wish to be part of.

Politics

Where a knowledge-focused government might invest in building its army, in an effort to gain an advantage over competing nations, a wisdom-focused government would prioritise peace-making activities, recognising the most important challenges we face today are universal and require collaborative efforts from all nations.

They’d adopt a globalist view, setting aside cultural differences, in favour of humanity as a whole. They know there are pressing problems demanding everyone’s attention and that, ultimately, we all share the same goals. That’s not to say they’d throw individuality out the window. A wise government honours similarity while valuing difference, and takes care in preserving the richness / diversity of our world. They connect on what matters*.

*As is the case with healthcare, adopting this scenario requires a significant shift from our current state. It doesn’t take immediate dangers, such as war and lack of aid in certain areas of the world, into account. The purpose, here, is to present an ideal to strive toward. Later, we consider the costs of such a world, and what such a transition requires. For now, let’s remain creative in considering the potential.

Wisdom-based ways.

What evidence do we have they work?

The above scenarios may be hypothetical, but many countries have succeeded in making them practical. Let’s now look at who has already done this, and what we can learn from their experiences.

Schools and social policies in Scandinavia.

One of the most notable examples of wisdom-centric culture can be seen in the education systems and social policies of Scandinavian countries, like Finland. Finland’s schools, renowned for their holistic and student-centred approach, consistently rank among the top in global indices.

According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) conducted by the OECD, Finnish students regularly outperform their peers in reading, maths, and science—with success attributed to a learning model that emphasises critical thinking, creativity and life skills, alongside traditional academic learning.

Paradoxically, Finnish schools have one of the shortest school days and least homework, illustrating the benefits of quality over quantity. And in terms of governance, Finland plus its Scandinavian neighbours are often heralded by other countries for their balanced approach to economic and social welfare.

According to the World Bank, Finland, Sweden and Denmark enjoy high GDP per capita (i.e. strong economic performance) but they also make the ranks in the Global Innovation Index (i.e. fostering innovation while maintaining social welfare systems). Not to mention, Finland has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2035, one of the most ambitious targets globally—proving that social and financial outcomes are not mutually exclusive or necessarily competing goals.

The best part? We actually see this performance trickle down into citizen happiness. The World Happiness Report consistently ranks these nations among the happiest in the world, with Finland at the top. Here, ‘happiness’ is correlated with strong social support networks, high levels of trust in government, and effective social safety nets. These outcomes are prime examples of the balanced approach taught in schools.

The corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies of brands like Ben & Jerry’s, or Patagonia.

In the business world, these companies have done more than embrace CSR as an initiative, a trend that became popular in the 1990s. From the outset, both Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s made social responsibility a core component of their business models, as opposed to an inconvenient initiative like most others—demonstrating how ethical practices can actually help drive financial success.

Patagonia, known for its environmental activism, commits 1% of its sales to environmental groups, amounting to over $89 million in cash and in-kind donations (i.e. goods and services). This dedication to sustainability extends to its supply chain and product design, which uses recycled materials and encourages product repair / reuse. Despite, or perhaps because of, its strong environmental stance, Patagonia has seen consistent, substantial growth—balancing profit with purpose before it became ‘hot’.

Ben & Jerry’s, while renowned for its ice cream, is equally known for its commitment to social justice and environmental causes. The company donates to charities, sources Fairtrade ingredients, supports sustainable farming communities and engages in advocacy / campaigns. As of 2020, Ben & Jerry’s annual sales were estimated to be around $680 million. Is this simply because of quality ice cream or is it the brand purpose customers want to get behind?

Indigenous communities in Native and South America, Africa, as well as Australia.

Indigenous cultures, all over the world, offer valuable insight into wisdom-based ways of living. Many of these have prioritised sustainable and community-focused practices from the outset, opting to live in harmony with nature and make decisions with careful consideration for future generations. 

The Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Haudenosaunee, famously consider the impact of their decisions on the next seven generations. In addition to ensuring environmental stewardship, responsible resource management and social cohesion, this philosophy has allowed them to maintain many cultural practices, languages and traditions, which they make deliberate efforts to pass on. In fact, it’s even inspired elements of the U.S. Constitution (including unity, balance of power and participatory decision-making).

In the Amazon, indigenous tribes such as the Yanomami and Kayapó, have such advanced biodiversity and ecosystem management knowledge that studies credit their essential role in sustaining the rainforest.

In Africa, the Maasai tribes have managed their lands to support people and wildlife. Their nomadic lifestyle and grazing practices are designed and aligned to conserve the environment, contributing to the maintenance of the savannah, including the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.

In Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ practices of ‘caring for country’ involve sustainable land management techniques that have preserved diverse ecosystems for over 60,000 years. One example is ‘cool burning,’ a fire management practice that’s significantly reduces bushfire risk and promotes biodiversity—sustaining the natural habitat they are a part of.

Key insights, applications, and an extrapolation.

What have we learned, and what does it mean?

To summarise, adopting a wisdom-based way of living means prioritising the thoughtful application of knowledge, with deep understanding and insight. Such a mental framework shifts the focus from mere accumulation of information to its meaningful and ethical use.

In this article, we’ve seen how:

• Holistic and balanced education leads to well-rounded personal development and prepares future generations for complex life challenges.

• Sustainable and ethical business practices create strong brand loyalty, customer trust, and long-term profitability whereas CSR fosters a healthier planet and more equitable society.

• Environmental protection and community focus result in better leadership of our people and stewardship of our planet.

• Long-term decision making offers sustainable and, in most cases, more beneficial outcomes for both current and future generations.

Applying these principles that are proven to work, we can move towards a more wisdom-based way of living and governing our global society. One that integrates diverse knowledge and experiences, guiding our actions and decisions from a well-rounded, reflective perspective.

Where knowledge accumulation leads to competition, the application of wisdom naturally considers the greater good. Context, empathy and moral judgement are given weight for a more measured, thoughtful existence that balances the quest for information with a high-level of integrity. In this world, innovation and progress would be prioritised alongside sustainability and equity, fostering more empathetic and community-oriented behaviour—for the benefit of all.

A wisdom-centric world is likely to offer a far more fulfilling existence. At the very least, a more peaceful one. So, applying the same test as we did with knowledge:

What is the cost of all this?

In part 4 of The Human Pickle we turn to strategy and action. We explore what the move to such a world might mean, both in process and opportunity cost. Then, we consider what leaders are saying about it—who backs it, who doesn’t, and why.

If you haven’t already, go back and read part 1 of this series where we explain the effects of AI and why this conversation is needed, now more than ever. Part 2 examines humanity’s obsession with knowledge that underpins it, giving context for the case presented in this article.

An invitation to use your voice.

Prove me wrong, share your perspective.

Meaningful change rests on healthy challenges. So, I invite you to form your own argument. Let’s make this a safe space for critical thinking and questioning. The more diverse a conversation, the stronger our species representation, and the better we can design a future we all love.