TED Talks Daily The power of unconventional thinking | David McWilliams
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Nov 1, 2023 David McWilliams challenges the way we think about economics by drawing parallels between history and the arts. He emphasizes the need for unconventional perspectives, such as those offered by poets like W.B. Yeats, to navigate societal crises. The podcast explores the limitations of conventional intelligence and the pitfalls of overconfidence in economic predictions, especially highlighted by the 2008 financial crisis. Ultimately, it champions artists as essential voices for change, urging a deeper understanding of the complexities of our world.
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Yeats's Accurate Prediction
- After Yeats predicted societal collapse, Mussolini and Hitler rose to power.
- Economists, however, wrongly predicted a return to normalcy.
Poets vs. Economists
- Poets like Yeats often get things right at tipping points while economists get them wrong.
- This is because poets think unconventionally and see the world differently.
School System Failings
- Schools often prioritize one type of intelligence, rewarding memorization over other skills.
- Many intelligent people leave school feeling inadequate because their strengths aren't recognized.