Book Description

This handbook provides an up-to-date overview of the topic of practical wisdom or phronesis. It enables the reader to locate common ground in conceptions of practical wisdom and to understand the way that different schools of thought have developed and then applied their particular perspectives on the topic. Part 1 deals with the development of key traditions of practical wisdom, particularly in Aristotelian virtue ethics, but also extending to other traditions such as Confucianism and Islam. It includes historical perspectives in philosophy, and offers views on the core concept of phronesis or practical wisdom and associated themes such as the idea of 'good' in good judgment, decision making in particular contexts, uncertainty, the acquisition of wisdom, and deliberation. It also includes an exploration of more contentious themes, such as reciprocity in the virtues, techne vs praxis, and standards. Part 2 deals with the application of the concept in business and management studies. It provides an overview of key areas of empirical research, and looks at the positioning of practical wisdom within a range of business and management contexts. These include management development and education, leadership, knowledge management, decision making, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence. Part 3 provides an opportunity to explore interdisciplinary links, contemporary issues and future directions of study. This includes perspectives from social science, psychology, education and other disciplines. It provides some scope for new conceptual development, for instance by encouraging intersectional discussion with other traditions, and includes critical voices.