Effect of Zhongyong thinking in the relationship of crystallized intelligence and wisdom

Abstract

Although scholars take the view that intelligence is a necessary condition for wisdom, intelligent people tend to prioritize and focus on their own immediate goals and interests, and often act unwisely. In this study we focused on the moderating effect of Zhongyong thinking in the relationship between crystallized intelligence and wisdom. Zhongyong thinking is a Confucius interpersonal style, the use of which can help intelligent people to think of others as well as themselves. Participants in our study were 103 students at a Chinese college, who completed all measures in a laboratory setting. Results show there was both a significant positive relationship between Zhongyong thinking and wisdom, and a moderating effect of Zhongyong thinking in the relationship between crystallized intelligence and wisdom. These findings provide new insight into the effect of Zhongyong thinking on the intelligence–wisdom behavior transformation process.