Intellectual Humility: Theory from Coursera

Faced with difficult questions people often tend to dismiss and marginalize dissent. Political and moral disagreements can be incredibly polarizing, and sometimes even dangerous. And whether it’s Christian fundamentalism, Islamic extremism, or militant atheism, religious dialogue remains tinted by arrogance, dogma, and ignorance. The world needs more people who are sensitive to reasons both for and against their beliefs, and are willing to consider the possibility that their political, religious and moral beliefs might be mistaken. The world needs more intellectual humility.

But what is intellectual humility, anyway? And why do people seem so drawn toward intellectual arrogance? Psychologists, philosophers, theologians, and educationalists are now suggesting some answers.

In this course we try to define intellectual humility and intellectual virtues in general, and ask how we know who is humble. All lectures are delivered by leading specialists, and the course is organised around a number of interesting readings and practical assignments which will help you address issues related to humility in your daily life.

This course is a part of a series which explores the theory, the science and the applied issues surrounding intellectual humility (the latter two coming in June and November 2017). Completing all three courses will give you a broader understanding of this fascinating topic. Look for:

• Intellectual Humility: Science - https://www.coursera.org/learn/intellectual-humility-science

• Intellectual Humility: Practice - https://www.coursera.org/learn/intellectual-humility-practice

You can also follow us on twitter: @EdiPhilOnline and #IHMOOC

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting started

What is intellectual humility?

by Dr Ian Church and Dr Peter Samuelson

What is an intellectual virtue?

by Professor John Greco

How do we know who is intellectually humble?

by Professor Peter C. Hill

End of course assignments

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops intellectual humility in learners, which is valuable for living in diverse communities and addressing social and political issues

Examines intellectual humility from philosophical, psychological, and theological perspectives, fostering a nuanced understanding

Provides practical guidance for developing intellectual humility in daily life, making the course's learning immediately applicable

Taught by respected academics with expertise in the field of intellectual humility, ensuring the credibility and rigor of the course content

Reviews summary

Thoughtful course on intellectual humility

Learners say this course is well-delivered and dynamic with engaging video lectures and optional supplemental materials. They appreciate the three level track system that allows them to customize their learning experience. Some students found the material dense, but most found it accessible even without a background in philosophy. Overall, this wonderful course is seen as a good starting point for anyone interested in the topic.

This course requires students to think critically about intellectual humility.

"This course really rewards effort. It has caused me to engage in self reflection and to re-evaluate my own habits of thought."

"This really motivated me to consciously practice intellectual humility."

Students found the instructors to be engaging and knowledgeable.

"Every time, it is a pleasure to do a course at this University of Edinburgh!"

"The professors speak very clearly and are engaging."

"The lectures all showed some of their personality which made listening more enjoyable."

Learners largely enjoyed this course.

"Good course"

"Loved it"

"Outstanding, really very good"

"Wonderful approach. Wonderful examples."

"Fantastic Course. I will complete the Science part also."

Students with no background in philosophy may find the material challenging.

"Very dense material"

"I enjoyed exploring the content behind the course, but the material was a little dense for someone without any type of philosophy background."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Intellectual Humility: Theory with these activities:

Review notes and readings from class

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This activity will help you refresh your memory on the key concepts covered in class.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Read over your notes from class.
Review the assigned readings.
Identify any areas where you need to improve your understanding.

Compile a collection of resources on intellectual humility

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This activity will help you gather a variety of resources on intellectual humility in one place.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Search for resources on intellectual humility online.
Save the resources to a folder on your computer or in a cloud storage service.
Organize the resources into categories.

Watch videos on intellectual humility

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This activity will help you gain a better understanding of intellectual humility and its importance.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Search for videos on intellectual humility on YouTube.
Watch a few videos and take notes on the key points.
Reflect on what you have learned and how it applies to your own life.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Discuss intellectual humility with a peer

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This activity will allow you to share your thoughts and ideas about intellectual humility with someone else.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Find a peer who is also interested in intellectual humility.
Set up a time to meet and discuss the topic.
Share your thoughts and ideas about intellectual humility.

Practice identifying intellectual humility

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This activity will help you develop the skill of identifying intellectual humility in yourself and others.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Read the article on intellectual humility.
Identify the key characteristics of intellectual humility.
Practice identifying intellectual humility in yourself and others.

Write a blog post on intellectual humility

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This activity will help you deepen your understanding of intellectual humility and its importance in the world.

Browse courses on Intellectual Humility

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Choose a topic related to intellectual humility.
Research the topic and gather information.
Write a blog post that shares your insights on the topic.

Read 'Humility: The Lost Virtue'

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This book provides an overview of humility and its importance in intellectual pursuits.

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Read the introduction and chapter 1.
Summarize the main arguments of the book.
Identify the key takeaways from the book.

Career center

Learners who complete Intellectual Humility: Theory will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Psychologist

Psychologists who are able to acknowledge and adjust for their intellectual limits will have an easier time maintaining ethical practice. By understanding the nuances of intellectual humility, such professionals may also broaden their approaches to better serve clients from a wide range of backgrounds.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist

Political Scientist

Political Scientists with an understanding of intellectual humility can participate more effectively in policy development and implementation. By fostering a sense of open-mindedness and receptivity to diverse viewpoints, they are better positioned to create and refine policies that consider the complexities of political behavior and thought.

See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist

Teacher

Teachers who demonstrate intellectual humility are more effective in conveying information to students. They are able to accommodate diverse learning styles and perspectives. This course provides an understanding of intellectual humility and its importance in teaching, guiding Teachers to effectively create inclusive and engaging learning environments.

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Religious Leader

Religious Leaders who cultivate intellectual humility can encourage a more inclusive and tolerant religious environment. By promoting open and respectful dialogue, they can bridge divides and foster understanding among individuals with diverse beliefs. This course explores intellectual humility in a religious context and provides practical guidance for promoting it within religious communities.

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Journalist

Journalists with intellectual humility can produce more balanced and nuanced reporting. They understand the importance of seeking diverse perspectives and being transparent about their own biases. This course provides a framework for understanding intellectual humility, helping Journalists to maintain objectivity and integrity in their work.

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Lawyer

Lawyers who embrace intellectual humility are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal system. By acknowledging the limits of their knowledge and remaining open to alternative interpretations, they strengthen their ability to effectively represent clients and ensure just outcomes.

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Doctor

Doctors who practice intellectual humility provide better patient care. They recognize the limits of their knowledge and are more open to seeking consultation and collaboration. This course helps Doctors develop intellectual humility, enabling them to deliver more effective and patient-centered care.

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Therapist

Therapists who demonstrate intellectual humility create more effective therapeutic relationships. They are able to listen attentively to clients, understand their perspectives, and tailor interventions accordingly. This course provides a foundation in intellectual humility, helping Therapists to cultivate a growth mindset and enhance their ability to support clients.

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Consultant

Consultants who possess intellectual humility are more effective in providing valuable advice to clients. They are able to recognize their own limitations and collaborate effectively with others. This course helps Consultants develop intellectual humility, enabling them to build stronger relationships and deliver more insightful solutions.

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Social Worker

Social Workers who practice intellectual humility are more effective in helping clients navigate complex challenges. They are able to understand and respect clients' perspectives, even when they differ from their own. This course provides a framework for understanding intellectual humility, helping Social Workers to build stronger relationships and provide more effective support.

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Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts who cultivate intellectual humility are more effective in developing and implementing sound policies. They are able to consider diverse perspectives and adjust their recommendations accordingly. This course explores the role of intellectual humility in policy analysis, providing Policy Analysts with tools to enhance their decision-making.

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Researcher

Researchers who embrace intellectual humility are more likely to produce rigorous and unbiased research findings. They are willing to challenge their assumptions and seek out alternative explanations. This course provides a framework for understanding intellectual humility, helping Researchers to maintain objectivity and integrity in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher

Project Manager

Project Managers who practice intellectual humility are more effective in leading and managing projects. They are able to recognize their own limitations and delegate tasks accordingly. This course provides a foundation in intellectual humility, helping Project Managers to build stronger teams and deliver successful projects.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts who possess intellectual humility are more effective in understanding and solving business problems. They are able to recognize the limits of their knowledge and collaborate effectively with others. This course may help Business Analysts develop intellectual humility, enabling them to provide more valuable insights and recommendations.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers who practice intellectual humility are more effective in communicating complex information clearly and concisely. They are able to recognize their own limitations and seek out subject-matter experts for guidance. This course may help Technical Writers develop intellectual humility, enabling them to produce higher-quality documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer