We all say we value learning and knowledge—but do our actions reflect that? It's easy to claim we value something, but as they say, when the rubber meets the road, actions reveal our true priorities. So, how can we know if we genuinely value knowledge?
Here's a thought experiment: Imagine a world where the more you learn, the less money you make. In this system, learning comes with a negative ROI. Would you still pursue it? Would you still crave knowledge if it didn't translate into material wealth?
If the answer is no, can we truly say we value knowledge? Many of history's greatest thinkers—philosophers, scientists, and innovators—pursued learning not for wealth, but because they were driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the world. These individuals shaped history because they valued learning for its own sake.
Now, I'm not saying we should all become philosophers or ignore practical skills. Asking for the ROI of a technical course like coding, negotiation, or accounting makes sense—they're tied to tangible outcomes. But when it comes to courses that shape how we think, like philosophy, critical thinking, or problem-solving, ROI isn't the right question. Some knowledge is priceless because it changes the way you see the world and approach challenges. ROI of those is not visible right now, but it shows up through out the life.
So before asking, "What's the ROI?" of a course in thinking or philosophy, pause and reflect: Do you value learning because you can't help but seek it, or only for what it can earn you? There's no right or wrong answer, but asking this question reveals what truly matters to you.
What do you think—do we value learning for its own sake?
