Intellectual honesty/Daily Intellectual Honesty Checklist

Overcome deception to attain intellectual honesty

(Run through these questions once a day or before making important decisions.)[1]

  1. Did I admit what I don’t know today?
    • If not, did I pretend to know something?
  2. Am I letting my ego drive my conclusions?
    • Would I hold the same view if I weren’t personally involved?
  3. Have I sought out opposing viewpoints?
    • Did I honestly consider them?
  4. Am I applying the same standards to myself as I do to others?
    • Or am I making special excuses for my side?
  5. Have I followed the evidence, even if it’s uncomfortable?
    • Or am I clinging to what feels good to believe?
  6. Have I given credit where it’s due?
    • Did I acknowledge others’ contributions or insights?
  7. If I’m wrong, will I change my mind?
    • Be ready to say, “I was wrong” without shame.

Wisdom Practice:

At the end of the day, write one sentence about a moment where you chose truth over comfort. This builds a habit of noticing—and celebrating—your own intellectual integrity.

  1. ChatGPT generated this list, prompted by materials from the Intellectual Honesty course.