The Minefield How much credence should we give to “the wisdom of crowds”?
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Feb 28, 2024 Stephanie Collins, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Monash University, dives deep into the complexities of crowd wisdom versus individual expertise. She explores how collective decision-making can yield better outcomes, challenging historical doubts from thinkers like Plato. The discussion also navigates the delicate balance between democratic representation and expert guidance, especially in crisis situations like climate change. Additionally, Collins emphasizes the importance of civil society in bridging communication amidst divisiveness, encouraging a thoughtful approach to governance.
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Wisdom of Crowds
- The wisdom of crowds suggests groups can be smarter than their smartest members.
- This has implications for democracy, justice systems, and even aesthetic judgment.
Crowds in Justice
- Juries are believed to be more astute than individual judges, reflecting the wisdom of crowds in justice systems.
- This concept extends to democracy and potentially aesthetic judgment.
Expertise vs. Crowds
- Different spheres of life may prioritize either expertise or the wisdom of crowds.
- The criteria for distinguishing these spheres needs further exploration.
