A Reflection on the Nature of Wisdom

Philosophers have defined wisdom in different ways. Most definitions refer to knowledge, but they do not agree that knowledge includes or is limited to both theoretical and practical knowledge. The definition of wisdom to understanding or to justified beliefs instead of justified true belief, that is knowledge, is another difference. In addition to all this, the definition of wisdom to virtue, due to its variety and complexity, is another thing that makes the definition of wisdom more difficult. The present article, while analyzing the various definitions offered by contemporary analytical philosophers on the nature of wisdom, explains first the relationship between wisdom and knowledge; knowledge as a necessary and sufficient condition for wisdom, a necessary but not sufficient condition, and neither necessary nor sufficient condition. Then considers wisdom as a rational or epistemic virtue and a necessary condition for acquiring knowledge. Finally, it emphasizes the importance and necessity of a more accurate explanation of this phenomenon.