Aristotle once said that “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it”. It is a sentiment echoed by numerous philosophers and intellectuals throughout the ages, expressing the idea that true intelligence lies in having the capacity to observe, analyse and contemplate both action and inaction and the implications thereof, in order to make more informed decisions in life.
The Dual Nature of Action and Inaction
Although often perceived as opposing forces, action and inaction are actually part of an entwined dynamic that can exist in two states: existing and not existing. In practical terms, this dynamic means that what we understand as action is derived from the lack of action and vice versa. Explaining this better are the words of Confucius, who said “The tiny difference between doing something and nothing is the difference between success and failure”.
Not only are both actions and inactions inseparably linked, but they are also the two factors that dictate the outcome of any situation. This means that the intelligent among us must have the ability to assess the effects of both within a set context and be able to factor them into their decision-making process.
The Power of Perception
The ability to assess the implications of action and inaction in a given situation relies heavily on the power of perception. This degree of perception must permeate each aspect of the individual’s life, namely: physical, psychological, mental and emotional. It means having the ability to weigh all angles of an idea or situation, or assess both the pros and cons of taking an action. It also requires having the intellectual awareness to recognise the influences – both positive and negative – of acting upon a decision, which may have been made in haste, impulse or ignorance. Only by comprehending this duality can a person be considered truly intelligent.
Implications of Action and Inaction
The implications of action and inaction can be best illustrated by examining the world around us. Take for instance, the current state of Climate Change. While we have a great number of solutions available to us, the lack of unified action means that the effects of inaction are far more pervasive. In the words of former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, “Climate change is much more than an environmental crisis; it is a security, development and human rights issue”. This is an extreme example, but it serves to highlight the powerful effects of inaction in the global context.
At the same time, action can also be used to positive effect. For instance, the Marshall Plan was an initiative designed by the United States to provide aid to war-torn Europe part of the way through the 20th century. It demonstrated the power of well-executed action to provide relief and revive economic growth among affected countries.
Reflecting On Intelligence
The ability to observe both action and inaction in a given situation, to assess the implications thereof, and to make informed decisions about one’s own behaviour, is what it means to be truly intelligent. It requires a heightened level of perception, a deep understanding of the exterior and interior context, an unbiased approach to decision-making and being mindful of the consequences of each decision. To be clear: intelligence isn’t necessarily measurable in terms of academic qualifications or level of success. Rather, intelligence is the capacity to think objectively, without bias, and to understand the implications of both action and inaction.
As the philosopher John Maynard Keynes once said:
“The ideas of economists and political philosophers, both when they are right and when they are wrong, are more powerful than is commonly understood. Indeed the world is ruled by little else.”
In this light, it is reassuring to know that intelligence among men may be observed and, more importantly, fostered. Intelligence implies a refined capacity to think and make decisions based on one’s perception of reality, and in doing so, make incredibly impactful decisions that will reverberate through the generations to come.
Conclusion
Truly intelligent men and women are able to observe and perceive the implications of both action and inaction in any context. They understand that each decision holds the power to do great good, or great harm, and are mindful of the consequences before making a choice. This is the kind of thinking – or hyper-awareness – that is required if we want to build a more humane and prosperous world, and the kind that should be fostered and encouraged in all aspects of life.
Sources:
Aristotle – https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/124774-it-is-the-mark-of-an-educated-mind-to-be-able-to
Confucius – https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/562-the-tiny-difference-between-doing-something-and
Ban Ki-moon – https://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/25/world/25quote.html?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=3ED606A54145E425B839542998898FE3&gwt=pay
John Maynard Keynes – https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/48518-the-ideas-of-economists-and-political-philosophers-both-when-they