Intellectual Virtues

Philosopher Jason Baehr identifies nine intellectual virtues, including curiosity, independent thinking, and intellectual humility. Together, these qualities help us become better thinkers, learners, and seekers of truth. At the School Data Leadership Association, we aim to bring these virtues into everything we do as we support K–12 schools.

Curiosity

A disposition to wonder, ponder, and ask 'why?'. A thirst for understanding and a desire to explore. A general dissatisfaction with the status-quo.

Intellectual Humility

A willingness to own up to one’s intellectual limitations and mistakes. Unconcerned with intellectual status or job titles.

Intellectual Autonomy

A capacity for active, self-directed thinking. An ability to think and reason for oneself, especially when it might run counter to existing 'groupthink'.

Attentiveness

A readiness to be “personally present” in any group collaborative process. Limits distractions. Strives to be engaged and engaging.

Intellectual Carefulness

A disposition to notice and avoid intellectual pitfalls and mistakes. Strives for accuracy.

Intellectual Thoroughness

A disposition to seek and provide explanations. Probes for deeper meaning and understanding.

Open-mindedness

An ability to think outside the box. Gives a fair hearing to competing perspectives especially when they challenge existing norms and procedures.

Intellectual Courage

A readiness to persist in thinking or communicating in the face of resistance, including fear of embarrassment, failure, or repudiation by one's peers.

Intellectual Tenacity

A willingness to embrace intellectual challenge and struggle. Keeps its “eyes on the prize” and doesn’t give up.