Ancient Greek philosophers valued a virtue called phronesis or “practical wisdom,” which involves doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason. It is the conceptual counterpoint to a form of apathy known as akrasia, or knowing what's right, but not doing it. In my recent book, Peace by Peace: Risking Public Action, Creating Social Change, I explore these dynamics and in this lively ten-minute talk will share some insight on how to operationalize practical wisdom in your everyday life.

Lisa Silvestri
Communication Arts & Sciences