The Gray Area with Sean Illing How to live in uncertain times
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Mar 17, 2025 Maggie Jackson, a writer and journalist and author of "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure," shares her insights on the unexpected benefits of embracing uncertainty. She discusses how accepting ambiguity can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and mental well-being. Maggie highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating life's challenges, while also addressing the dangers of closed-mindedness in a polarized society. Her perspective encourages listeners to see uncertainty not as a barrier, but as a unique opportunity for growth and personal development.
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Knowledge's Dynamism
- Maggie Jackson highlights the dynamic nature of knowledge, challenging the notion of it as a static entity.
- She emphasizes its mutability, viewing uncertainty as "wisdom in motion" rather than a paralyzing force.
The Stress of Uncertainty
- Uncertainty triggers a stress response because humans instinctively seek answers for survival.
- However, this stress also broadens focus, increases receptiveness to new data, and enhances working memory, creating learning opportunities.
Uncertainty and Learning
- Uncertainty, combined with the resulting stress response, creates an ideal environment for learning and growth.
- This is because learning involves surprise, and uncertainty jolts us from routine, signaling our brains that there's something new to learn.
