Tacit knowledge is a form of implicit knowledge that we possess and use in our daily lives unconsciously. Unlike explicit knowledge, which can be easily articulated and transmitted through words or clear instructions, tacit knowledge is more difficult to express verbally. It is often acquired through experiences, repeated practices and observations, and is rooted in our actions, intuitions and emotions.
Origin and concept of tacit knowledge
The concept of tacit knowledge was introduced by philosopher and scientist Michael Polanyi in the 1950s. Polanyi argued that much human knowledge is tacit, that is, it cannot be easily expressed in words or rules. explicit. This type of knowledge is based on practical skills, intuitions and judgments that we are often not aware of possessing.
Tacit knowledge is developed throughout our lives through interaction with our environment, practicing skills and absorbing information in a non-conscious way. For example, a person who has driven a car for years may have tacit knowledge about how to react in heavy traffic situations, without needing to think carefully about every decision they make.
Types of tacit knowledgeTypes of tacit knowledge
There are different forms of tacit knowledge, which cover various aspects of our lives and abilities. Some common examples include:
- Procedural knowledge: This type of knowledge refers to the practical skills and processes that we have internalized through practice. For example, knowing how to ride a bicycle or perform a task at work efficiently.
- Perceptual knowledge: Refers to the ability to perceive and interpret information intuitively, without the need for conscious reasoning. For example, recognizing familiar faces or reading people's emotions through their body language.
- Emotional knowledge: This type of knowledge is related to understanding and managing our emotions. own emotions and those of others. It includes the ability to empathize, show compassion, and regulate our emotional reactions.
Expressions of tacit knowledge in everyday life
Despite its implicit nature, tacit knowledge It manifests itself in various ways in our daily lives. Next, we will analyze some of the most common expressions of this type of knowledge:
Intuitions and instinctive decisions
Intuitions are clear manifestations of tacit knowledge in action. We often make decisions based on hunches or hunches that we cannot explain rationally, but which turn out to be correct. This form of knowledge allows us to act quickly and effectively in situations of uncertainty or danger, trusting our previous experience and our instincts.
Automatic behaviors and ingrained habits
Our habits Daily diaries and routines are strongly influenced by the tacit knowledge we have acquired over time. From the way we get dressed in the morning to the way we interact with others, much of our behavior is based on patterns that we have unconsciously internalized. These automatic behaviors allow us to function efficiently in our daily lives without having to analyze every action we take.
Artistic expression and creativity
Tacit knowledge also plays a crucial role in artistic expression and creativity. Artists, writers, and musicians often rely on their intuition and prior experience to create meaningful and original works. Through the exploration of shapes, colors, words or sounds, they express emotions and thoughts that go beyond what can be communicated verbally.
Development and enhancement of tacit knowledge
Although tacit knowledge is inherently difficult to transmit and explain, there are ways to develop and enhance it in our daily lives. Some strategies to foster tacit knowledge include:
Practice and repetition
Continuous practice of specific skills and tasks is essential to developing the tacit knowledge associated with them. Through repetition and experience, our brain internalizes patterns and processes that allow us to perform these activities more efficiently and automatically.
Reflection and self-awareness
Taking time to reflect about our actions, decisions and emotions helps us become aware of our tacit knowledge and better understand how it influences our lives. Self-observation allows us to identify patterns of behavior and thinking that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Experiential learning
Active participation in meaningful and challenging experiences is an excellent way to acquire tacit knowledge. Through immersion in new situations, we face challenges that require the use of tacit skills and judgments, allowing us to expand our repertoire of implicit knowledge.
Importance of tacit knowledge in human life
Tacit knowledge plays a fundamental role in human life by influencing our decisions, actions and relationships with others. Its importance lies in several key aspects:
Flexibility and adaptability
Tacit knowledge gives us the flexibility and adaptability necessary to face new and changing situations. By trusting our intuition and previous experience, we can quickly adjust our behavior and make sound decisions in complex and dynamic environments.
Nonverbal communication
Much of human communication is based on non-verbal signals and gestures that express tacit knowledge implicitly. Our body language, tone of voice and facial expressions convey important information about our emotions, intentions and thoughts without the need for words.
Personal and professional development
The development of tacit knowledge is essential for our personal and professional growth. As we acquire new skills and experiences, we expand our base of implicit knowledge that allows us to approach challenges with greater confidence and effectiveness.
Final Conclusions
Tacit knowledge is a powerful form of knowing that it greatly influences our lives and the way we perceive the world around us. Although we often overlook its presence, it is essential to recognize and value this type of knowledge to enhance our personal and professional growth.
By understanding the nature and manifestations of tacit knowledge, we can cultivate a greater awareness of our intuitive capacities, practical and emotional skills, and explore new ways of expression and learning in our daily lives.