Intellectual arrogance is a set of characteristics that tends to blind an otherwise intelligent person from recognizing the truth. Intellectual humility is “the recognition that the things you believe in might be wrong,” A benefit of intellectual humility is the recognition that one's perspective will always be limited. This recognition leaves a person well-positioned to learn as much as possible from peers and subordinates.

Examples of intellectual humility

I question my opinions, positions, and viewpoints because they could be wrong. I reconsider my thoughts when presented with new evidence. I recognize the value in views that are different from my own. I accept that my beliefs and attitudes may be wrong.

These thoughts were presented in Inc Magazine’s article: “Warren Buffett: Only 1 Thing Will Hold You Back From Achieving Great Things in Life.”

Buffett discusses the one bad habit to pay close attention to that could become self-destructive in the long run. He adds that not becoming aware of this bad habit, “intellectual arrogance,” and doing something to rid yourself of it may hold you back.

The need to show people that you think you're smarter than they are is one way to derail yourself from building solid bonds.

To counter the effects of intellectual arrogance, the most intelligent people stretch their knowledge by being open to soaking up the philosophical wisdom of others. In other words, being clever without arrogance means acknowledging that you don't know everything. Then seek knowledge from those who may know more than you do.

Because, let's face it, if you're the most intelligent person in the room, you're in the wrong room.”