Knowledge, Wisdom & Insight

Sebastian Yuwette with his student
colleagues at Soegijapranata Catholic University
Indonesia/ Photo credit: Sebastian

KNOWLEDGE is the accumulation of facts and data that we have learned about or experienced. It’s being 'aware of something' and having information. Knowledge is really about facts and ideas that we acquire through study, research, investigation, observation, or experience. 

WISDOM is the ability to distinguish and judge which aspects of that knowledge are true, right, lasting, and applicable to our life. It is the ability to apply that knowledge to the greater scheme of life. It is also deeper; knowing the meaning or reason; about knowing why something is, and what it means to our life.

INSIGHT is the deepest level of knowing and the most meaningful to our life. Insight is a deeper and clearer perception of life, of knowledge, of wisdom. It’s grasping the underlying nature of knowledge, and the essence of wisdom. Insight is a truer understanding of our life and the bigger picture of how things interlink.

In a nutshell: If knowledge is information, wisdom is the understanding and application of that knowledge and insight is the awareness of the underlying essence of a truth.

It is indeed amazing to notice a rapid growing number of academics in distinct professions in our societies nevertheless; regrettably it is sad to realize some with such recognized credentials and position of trust effortlessly resort to the outraging ring of corruption. Sadly, we can gain a lifetime of knowledge, yet never see the wisdom in it. We must nurture and inspire citizens and individuals who will establish knowledge, wisdom and insight, only then we will comprehend progress in our societies. 

We can be wise, but still miss the deeper meaning because we are ridden with greed, pride, self-centeredness, egotistical characteristics, rudeness etc. Corruption is at its best in every segment of our society. It’s you who will make the difference!

Sebastian Yuwette

Soegijapranata Catholic University, 

Republic of Indonesia.

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