Prudent Knowledge for a Decent Life: A Review

Introduction

In his book "Prudent Knowledge for a Decent Life", Boaventura de Sousa Santos argues that the current global crisis is a crisis of knowledge. He contends that the dominant forms of knowledge, which are based on Western rationality and science, have failed to address the complex challenges of the 21st century. Santos proposes an alternative form of knowledge, which he calls "prudent knowledge," that is based on the experiences and wisdom of ordinary people. He argues that this form of knowledge is essential for creating a more just and sustainable world.

Prudent Knowledge

Prudent knowledge is a form of knowledge that is based on experience, common sense, and practical wisdom. It is not based on abstract theory or scientific research, but rather on the knowledge that people gain from living their lives. Santos argues that prudent knowledge is essential for understanding the complex challenges of the 21st century, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. He contends that the dominant forms of knowledge, which are based on Western rationality and science, have failed to address these challenges because they are too abstract and removed from the real world.

The Crisis of Knowledge

Santos argues that the current global crisis is a crisis of knowledge. He contends that the dominant forms of knowledge have failed to provide us with the tools we need to understand and address the complex challenges of the 21st century. He points to the fact that the world is facing a number of serious problems, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, which are all rooted in our current system of knowledge. Santos argues that we need a new form of knowledge, which he calls "prudent knowledge," that is based on the experiences and wisdom of ordinary people. He contends that this form of knowledge is essential for creating a more just and sustainable world.

The Alternative: Prudent Knowledge

Santos proposes an alternative form of knowledge, which he calls "prudent knowledge," that is based on the experiences and wisdom of ordinary people. He argues that this form of knowledge is essential for creating a more just and sustainable world. Prudent knowledge is based on the following principles:

• It is based on experience and common sense, rather than abstract theory or scientific research.
• It is grounded in the real world, rather than being removed from it.
• It is inclusive, rather than exclusive.
• It is participatory, rather than authoritarian.
• It is reflexive, rather than dogmatic.

Santos argues that prudent knowledge is essential for understanding the complex challenges of the 21st century. He contends that the dominant forms of knowledge, which are based on Western rationality and science, have failed to address these challenges because they are too abstract and removed from the real world. Prudent knowledge, on the other hand, is grounded in the real world and is based on the experiences and wisdom of ordinary people. This makes it a more effective tool for understanding and addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century.

Conclusion

In "Prudent Knowledge for a Decent Life", Boaventura de Sousa Santos argues that the current global crisis is a crisis of knowledge. He contends that the dominant forms of knowledge, which are based on Western rationality and science, have failed to address the complex challenges of the 21st century. Santos proposes an alternative form of knowledge, which he calls "prudent knowledge," that is based on the experiences and wisdom of ordinary people. He argues that this form of knowledge is essential for creating a more just and sustainable world.

Santos' book is a powerful and provocative critique of the current global crisis. He offers a compelling alternative to the dominant forms of knowledge and provides a roadmap for creating a more just and sustainable world. This book is essential reading for anyone who is concerned about the future of our planet.