The Virtue of Open-Mindedness and Ways to Cultivate It

Document Type : Original Article

Author
sadegh mirahmadi
Dept. Islamic Sciences, Shahrekord University
10.30470/phm.2024.2001674.2401
Abstract
Open-mindedness is one of the most crucial and complex intellectual virtues that has been highlighted in contemporary virtue epistemology. While this virtue is frequently considered the foremost among intellectual virtues, providing a precise explanation of what it is and how to cultivate it has become a significant issue among virtue epistemologists. The main idea presented in this research is that to be open-mindedness, requires having a correct understanding of the concept of this virtue. On the other hand, if someone has a proper understanding of open-mindedness but does not manifest this virtue in practice, they are not mentally open in an intellectual sense. The research method in this research is descriptive and content analysis. The results of this study indicate that open-mindedness requires specific motivations and cognitive characteristics that are essential conditions for acquiring and advancing knowledge. Cultivating and fostering open-mindedness as one of the most essential tools for deep learning is among the primary responsibilities of educators, and its role in helping students overcome intellectual obstacles and acquire knowledge is irreplaceable. A deep understanding of this virtue motivates us to strengthen the cultivation of this virtue within ourselves.
Keywords
Open-mindedness
Intellectual virtue
Virtue epistemology
Education
Motivation
Subjects
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University Press
Philosophical Meditations
Volume 15, Issue 36 - Serial Number 36
February 2026
Pages 193-220