We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom. The world henceforth will be run by synthesizers, people able to put together the right information at the right time, think critically about it, and make important choices wisely.
Interpretation
We have access to vast amounts of information, but true understanding and wisdom are rare and necessary for decision-making.
E. O. Wilson's quote highlights the paradox of our time where an abundance of information does not equate to wisdom or understanding. It emphasizes the importance of having the ability to critically analyze information, synthesize it effectively, and make informed decisions, suggesting that the future will be governed by those who can navigate this landscape intelligently.
In practice
Using this quote in a seminar about data analysis and the importance of critical thinking skills.
Consider the nematode roundworm, the most abundant of all animals. Four out of five animals on Earth are nematode worms — if all solid materials except nematode worms were to be eliminated, you could still see the ghostly outline of most of it in nematode worms.
Nature holds the key to our aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive and even spiritual satisfaction.
The worst thing that will probably happen-in fact is already well underway-is not energy depletion, economic collapse, conventional war, or the expansion of totalitarian governments. As terrible as these catastrophes would be for us, they can be repaired in a few generations. The one process now going on that will take millions of years to correct is loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats. This is the folly our descendants are least likely to forgive us.
Humanity today is like a waking dreamer, caught between the fantasies of sleep and the chaos of the real world. The mind seeks but cannot find the precise place and hour. We have created a Star Wars civilization, with Stone Age emotions, medieval institutions, and godlike technology. We thrash about. We are terribly confused by the mere fact of our existence, and a danger to ourselves and to the rest of life.
Destroying rainforest for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal.
An Armageddon is approaching at the beginning of the third millennium. But it is not the cosmic war and fiery collapse of mankind foretold in sacred scripture. It is the wreckage of the planet by an exuberantly plentiful and ingenious humanity.
Truth uttered before its time is dangerous.
Imagine losing fingernails, Harry! That really puts our sufferings into perspective, doesn't it?
The problem with forbearance is that it always looks like a good thing to do until it stops working.
People should not worry as much about what they do but rather about what they are. If they and their ways are good, then their deeds are radiant. If you are righteous, then what you do will also be righteous. We should not think that holiness is based on what we do but rather on what we are, for it is not our works which sanctify us but we who sanctify our works.
Those who wish to appear learned to fools, appear as fools to the learned.
Every time I say 'no' to a small temptation, I strengthen my will to say 'no' to a greater one.
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