The wisdom and foolishness of crowds

The wisdom of the crowd refers to the idea that large groups of people can make more accurate estimates than any single individual. This is based on the idea that the collective knowledge and diverse perspectives of a group can lead to better decision-making. A group of people can make accurate and wise decisions when they are encouraged to share their diverse perspectives and knowledge.

In a way, this is related to what we advocate in doing action research: collaboratively constructing the issue and desired outcomes the group given a particular context.

On the other hand, the foolishness of the crowd refers to the tendency of large groups of people to make irrational decisions. This can happen when individuals within a crowd conform to the behavior or beliefs of the group, rather than thinking independently. a group can make irrational and foolish decisions when individuals conform to the behavior or beliefs of the group without thinking independently.

In action research, we aim for the action researcher to engage in what is called second-person practice – critically reflecting about group dynamics, ways of inquiries, and ways of speech.

As always, the challenge is to find the balance. When is it wiser to listen to the wisdom of the crowd and when is it advisable to go against the crowd’s sentiments? It takes reasonable judgements and responsible decisions.

But what is most important is the courage to be vulnerable.

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Mark 3:20-21. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-021: JANUARY 21, 2023]

Candle to candle

The idea of humility and servant leadership can be likened to a candle, which gives light to others without drawing attention to itself.

The candle, in its very nature, is selfless, as it consumes its own wax to provide light for others. The candle also symbolizes the idea of sacrifice. In order for the candle to give light, it must sacrifice its own wax.

However, the candle also symbolizes the idea of burning out. A candle can only burn for so long before it is consumed by the very flame that gives it life.

Relying on one candle is not sustainable, but imagine if there are more candles lighting the world. Maybe there will be no more need for one candle to fully consume itself because there will be others who can take its place. Candle to candle, we pass on the flame that can purify us so we can be the best version of ourselves.

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Mark 3:7-12. He warned them sternly not to make him known.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-019: JANUARY 19, 2023]

Quick meta-reflection on AI-assisted writing: ChatGPT listed useful analogies, and what struck me was likening servant leadership to candlelight.

Insights and the spirit of traditions

Traditions offer a framework for comprehending and interpreting the world, but they should not be viewed as a barrier to development and original thought. They should be viewed as a road map that directs us to newer insights and discoveries.

We must be willing to challenge conventional wisdom and ask difficult questions in order to develop fresh perspectives and make unexpected connections.

Traditions and norms may provide a baseline on how to live life in a society. However, akin to removing the training wheels of a bike, there are times when we have to find our own balance to move forward and set our spirit free.

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Mark 2:23-28. “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-017: JANUARY 17, 2023]

Quick meta-reflection on AI-assisted writing: The use of ChatGPT (analogies prompt) and subsequent editing allowed me to overcome writer’s block. I can argue that the responsible use of AI-assisted writing can aid a writer to enter a flow state as well.

Protecting (but not limiting) the child within us

A child has the license to dream. Naiveté and innocence are seen as endearing rather than a weakness.

As children come of age, somehow this license is revoked. Why do we, as a society, define growing up as letting go of our childlikeness?

We are keen to box and stereotype the young into a career or profession. And maybe it is with good intentions. Maybe we want to protect the young against the harshness of a jungle-like world.

But to box and stereotype is also to limit. Who are we to box and limit? Who are we to revoke one’s license to dream?

Our challenge is to protect and enable, but never limit, children and the child within us.

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Matthew 18:1-5, 10. Feast of the Santo Niño

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-015: JANUARY 15, 2023]

How do we avoid being too skeptical and too gullible?

Balancing skepticism and gullibility is a delicate task that requires a certain level of discernment. On the one hand, skepticism is important in order to critically evaluate information and protect ourselves from being deceived. On the other hand, gullibility can lead to a lack of trust and closed-mindedness.

What stands out to me in these kinds of gospel stories is that Jesus is presented as knowing how the Pharisees tend to be both skeptical and judgmental. Jesus calls this out but performs a miracle anyway, which leads the other members of the crowd into believing Him.

Maybe the key is being skeptical but postponing judgment. If we can critically evaluate what we see without hasting towards snap judgments, then we can find the sweet spot between skepticism and gullibility.

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Mark 2:1-12. Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-013: JANUARY 13, 2023]