In the ever-evolving landscape of education and intelligence, the traditional focus on high IQ (or what we can call "hard-brain" intelligence) is being complemented by the rise of "soft-brain" intelligence. This shift recognizes the value of practical, street-smart thinking and the role of advanced technologies like Large Language Models (LLMs) in enhancing our capabilities. In this new era, it’s essential to cultivate a balanced approach to education, integrating the wisdom of ancient practices with modern technological advancements.

Understanding Soft-Brain and Hard-Brain Intelligence

The "hard-brain" refers to high IQ, characterized by analytical and logical reasoning skills. These individuals excel in abstract thinking, problem-solving, and theoretical knowledge. However, high IQ is rare by definition and often leads to a narrowly focused approach to problem-solving.

On the other hand, the "soft-brain" encompasses practical intelligence, or street smarts. It includes the ability to navigate social situations, adapt to changing environments, and apply knowledge pragmatically. Unlike hard-brain intelligence, soft-brain skills can be developed more broadly through experience and education.

Integrating the Five Factors of Soft-Brain Education

To truly embrace the era of the soft brain, we need to rethink our educational methodologies. Drawing inspiration from martial arts, here are five key factors that can shape a comprehensive soft-brain education:

1. Mitate 見立て (Offensive Preparation):

   • Concept: Prediction and planning based on observation. In Kendo, this means anticipating the opponent’s moves.

   • Application: Teach students to develop keen observation skills and strategic thinking. This can involve perfect information games such as role-playing, simulations, and strategic games that require predicting others' actions.

   • Preferable Age of Onboarding: 6 years old and up. This is because offensive preparation doesn’t need resource and careful thoughts. Only needs curiosity and motivation.

2. Metsuke 目付け (Defensive Preparation):

   • Concept: Constant awareness of one’s surroundings, similar to checking mirrors while driving.

   • Application: Encourage a balance of offense with simultaneous defensive awareness. Activities that require multitasking and situational awareness (imperfect information games), such as team sports or strategy games, can cultivate this skill.

   • Preferable Age of Onboarding: 8 years old and up. This is because defensive preparation doesn’t need resource but requires careful thoughts. Beyond just Mitate something, try Metsuke simultaneously.

3. Ashihakobi 足運び (Offensive Action):

   • Concept: Executing offensive actions based on preparation.

   • Application: Promote decisive and confident action. Project-based learning, public speaking, and competitive games can help students act on their plans.

   • Preferable Age of Onboarding: 13 years old and up. Ashihakobi requires real action and one need to be independent and responsible for one’s decision.

4. Kawarimi 変わり身 (Defensive Action):

   • Concept: Quick defensive maneuvers to evade threats.

   • Application: Train adaptive and quick response strategies through crisis simulations, self-defense training, or emergency response drills.

   • Preferable Age of Onboarding: 16 years old and up. Kawarimi is reaction for the scent of failure or failure itself. It requires real failure opportunity and one needs to try Ashihakobi first.

5. Manazashi 眼差し (Gentle Gaze from a Distance):

   • Concept: Observing from a distance to identify the right timing for action, akin to watching a boxing match from the sidelines before entering the ring.

   • Application: Teach students to maintain a long-term perspective, understanding when to act and when to observe. This can be applied in business strategy, market analysis, and life planning.

   • Preferable Age of Onboarding: 18 years old and up. Manazashi requires many try and errors (iteration of all 4 factors above) and only one iteration won’t give one to understand how things are working.

The Role of LLMs in Soft-Brain Education

Soft-brainers, who typically have median IQs, form the majority of our society and benefit from specialized education that enhances their practical intelligence. High IQ individuals, by definition, are relatively rare. However, with the advent of Large Language Models (LLMs), these soft-brainers can now significantly boost their knowledge and logical reasoning abilities.

They are the silent majority. They are opportunists. They are legion. These anonymous soft-brainers are always behind the scenes, shaping the world around you.

Conclusion

In this new era, balancing hard-brain and soft-brain intelligence is crucial. By integrating the five factors of soft-brain education and leveraging the power of LLMs, we can prepare students for a complex and dynamic world. This approach not only enhances practical intelligence but also ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate both traditional and modern challenges.

As we embrace the era of the soft brain, let’s commit to fostering a holistic, well-rounded education that values both analytical prowess and practical wisdom. This balanced approach will empower the next generation to thrive in a world where both hard-brain and soft-brain intelligences are essential.