Flavor #15: Moral Cognition (Da’at; Hakam; Biyn; Aisthesis; Arete)

(Complete list and links to the 31 Flavors of Wisdom)

Meaning, Essence and Significance: Moral cognition is the capacity to discern and choose right over wrong, integrating knowledge, wisdom, and ethical sensitivity. The Hebrew term Da’at denotes deep, experiential knowledge that informs your moral judgment. Hakam refers to moral sensitivity, and your attunement to ethical nuances that arise in various life situations. Biyn encompasses discernment and understanding, and your ability to distinguish between the choices and options before you. The Greek term Aisthesis signifies perception and moral discernment. Arete is outstanding moral goodness and excellence of character, which is highly esteemed by others who either observe or receive this behavior from you. Together, these concepts form a comprehensive framework for moral cognition, which means you’ll thoroughly think through situations and successfully navigate complex life issues that arise with clarity, integrity and strength of character, where the behavior you demonstrate not only reflects your identity, but is typically esteemed by others!

Practical Appearance and Nutritional Value: Moral cognition manifests as thoughtful reflection before action, as you consider the simple, or profound implications of your decisions. It involves seeking counsel, weighing options with discernment, and aligning your choices with your chosen Healthy Adult Mode/Core values. This practice results in a clear conscience, builds trust in relationships, and cultivates a reputation of integrity. By consistently applying moral cognition, you develop competence against ethical dilemmas as you contribute to a culture that needs to see people like you modeling “doing the next right thing.”

Who deserves some of this seasoning?  “The people I encounter deserve from me the seasoning of moral cognition. This involves my engagement in open and honest communication, making decisions that reflect my virtues and values, and demonstrating consistency between my words and actions. It means addressing conflicts with fairness, admitting mistakes, and prioritizing (our relationship’s) well-being over my personal ego. By embodying moral cognition, I aim to create a positive example with others, become an effective agent of change, and leave a legacy of behavior that reflects the practice of good.”

So thanks again for looking at these 31 Flavors of Wisdom and hopefully, participating in the 31 Day Wisdom Challenge, and for reading this excerpt from Cultivating Love: Wisdom for Life. As time permits, please visit the other blogs written by Dr. Ken McGill: Daily Bread for Life and “3–2- 5–4–24” for additional information that could be helpful.