Modern wisdom and knowledge

[$var] is a data point, ‘fact’, ‘statistic’, ‘soundbite’, or any ‘piece of knowledge’

Is [$var] true? How much so?

At this point, a better question to first ask might be:

Do I care? Should I?

Not only do we collectively fail to determine the nature of ‘falsehood’ or nuance of what ‘truth’ is, we also fail to integrate acquired knowledge into wisdom - or what is easier said by what may behoove us, either individually or collectively where the latter is the most arguable and difficult determination.

This aspect of our pursuit of functional knowledge (read: wisdom) is specifically challenged by modernity by the sheer amount and complexity of information that appears useful, either by our own imaginations or by its loud voice. So-called ‘knowledge’ is shoved into our face every hour of the day, but dismissing it’s lack of direct functional value is only the first step, the next is to recognize what lack of knowledge, or ignored whitespace is both functional and available as an alternative (nothing is also an option).

Suppose I have acquired knowledge of the number of murders that occur per Capita in China. Great. What do I do with this information? How likely is it that I might actually ever need this information? Does this information provide (likely) value for me or anyone I may exert influence over at any future time? Even so, what alternative information does this deter me from receiving? How likely is it that I would happen upon, or be able to select different knowledge that better addresses any of the above concerns that are dressed as questions? No mention even to contextualizing said knowledge or psychologically digesting it’s importance.

This surplus we may call knowledge under this guise of information = knowledge = worthwhile is instead a glutton of distractions. Distractions from both with what our minds themselves call to interest as well as any universal or proximal concerns of ours necessary for thriving.

These considerations point clearly to a subjectivity of wisdom, such that one man’s wisdom is another’s folly. If knowledge is inherently universal, wisdom is certainly subjective. So in sharing knowledge with others, do we first consider their notions and necessities of wisdom? The modern age demands for such an evolution in our means and extent of sharing. One should refrain from spreading knowledge that falls on ears less wiser for hearing it.

Knowledge for knowledge’s sake guarantees no wisdom. Perhaps a time existed where information was sparce to the extent of universally implied wisdom, but in modern times the strength of your knowledge filter will be the extent of your wisdom.