The Affirmation of a Knowledgeable Individual

A person takes adaptive behaviour in response to certain situations, manifesting involuntary and subconscious. Often people think that talking is a way to showcase smartness but how many are intellectually smart and how many merely prattle?  Persons who are put are conscious about the changing environment rather it be society or the family thus, they are ready to take over the challenging circumstances. 

The greatest gift to humanity is knowledge, a form of learning that surpasses mere accumulation of degrees. However, many fall into the trap of “babbling.” Firstly, it occurs in times of stress when individuals struggle to compose themselves. Conversely, true progress happens when one learns through observation and action, addressing challenges gradually but effectively.

Secondly, babbling arises from inflated pride, driven by a need for recognition. Yet, genuine acclaim renders self-promotion unnecessary, as others naturally commend those deserving praise. Intelligence stems from mindset, not boasting. Thirdly, nefarious individuals may babble incessantly, highlighting faults to sow discord. Despite feigning innocence, their ulterior motives betray them. Genuine lessons don’t require such behaviour.

In essence, while babbling may stem from stress, pride, or malintent, its prevalence underscores the importance of integrity in communication. True intelligence lies in humble actions and genuine intentions, not boastful words.

Knowledge is not to boss around or show pride or to defile someone but, why is knowledge important? People who lack understanding, people who are often looking for wars and fights, people who choose violence, there’s always a reason for everything and so to understand those reasons we need knowledgeable people. Knowledgeable person has to fill the gap in order to balance every rising conflict and situation rather it may be in formal and informal institutions.

So can knowledge be dangerous? 

Knowledge must be used wisely or else it can be weaponized as a slaughtering machine. We say “Little knowledge is dangerous’ ‘, so do they. Gaining little knowledge can have its own impact, say, a person cannot shoot someone because they have a gun. People who silently and solitarily learn do not always choose the right path. Their knowledge is highly unachievable and when they choose the dark path, it is when crimes start arising. A curious question, why does it take just one person to commit a crime and why does it take many people just to find one criminal? We never know how knowledge can take a powerful shape; it can either be used wisely in the right hand or used for crimes in the wrong hands. However, Knowledge takes its form in accordance to the person’s desires. 

Knowledge is acquired over time; no individual has ever realised their aspirations without it. Reflect, learn, and act – this process has empowered many great personalities throughout history. Life is a journey marked by successes and failures, with achievements being merely a recognition of endeavours. What truly matters is the lessons learned along the way, shaping individuals to think critically and act wisely. The power of knowledge lies not in elevating oneself above others or assuming divine status but in sharing and empowering others.

Plato, the Greek philosopher, initially defined knowledge as true belief attainable by anyone who is self-aware and responsible. Bertrand Russell, a British philosopher, emphasised in his 1954 essay “Knowledge and Wisdom” the importance of balancing knowledge and wisdom to maintain peace. Knowledge has the potential to reshape societies, enabling those with higher understanding to challenge existing norms and systems. It serves not only to sharpen individuals but also as a guiding light for those lacking in knowledge.

Knowledge is a double-edged sword, capable of being both a companion and a foe. Life tests individuals’ capabilities and worthiness, with each step filled with trials and temptations. While some may choose to pursue selfish endeavours, knowledge has become a pervasive force in human existence, shaping every aspect of life.

Age does not define one’s capacity for learning; experiences garnered from living environments play a pivotal role. Contrasting scenarios, such as an impoverished eight-year-old versus a privileged twenty-year-old, highlight how differing circumstances contribute to varied levels of knowledge acquisition. Despite age discrepancies, the young boy’s exposure to harsh realities cultivates a deeper understanding compared to the sheltered young man.

Knowledge is often misguided and misused by many people. Knowledge is a gift to recreate human society with peace and harmony. However, it does not apply to most people. In our Naga society, we see political leaders misleading the public through their knowledge. The ways of convincing the public and making the impossible promises which would be abandoned right after the breath. It is their way to exercise their knowledge in wrong way which benefits themselves and let suffer to those public who are not enough knowledgeable. In our society people who are knowledgeable about something are those who corrupted society the most. Their knowledge is confined to money and to create conflicts for their advantage. Charles Darwin mentioned “Survival of The Fittest” in his theory of Evolution, which also prevails in our society. Only the best and the fittest will survive where no room exists for those who live under the shadow of someone else. 

The power of knowledge is a key to unlocking the secrets of the world; it can either be good or bad. Rightful owner of one’s knowledge will value and act accordingly which is beneficial for all, rather Knowledge shouldn’t be confined and kept to oneself but one should share the knowledge and make others learn which is the true meaning of knowledge. 

In conclusion, knowledge is a transformative force that transcends age and socioeconomic status, empowering individuals to navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and insight.

Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. The editorial team includes Chubamenla, Asst. Professor, Dept. of English and Rinsit Sareo, Asst. Manager, IT, Media & Communications.

For feedback or comments please email: dot@tetsocollege.org