What Happens When We Admit 'We Don't Know?' Kelly Corrigan Champions Humility & Curiosity in New Big Think Essay
16 Feb 2026
Bestselling author, cultural commentator, and APB speaker Kelly Corrigan is calling for a renewed embrace of intellectual humility in an era shaped by instant opinions and constant certainty. In her latest essay for Big Think’s The Well, Corrigan reflects on the surprising power of admitting, “I don’t know”—a phrase she believes can open doors to curiosity, empathy, and deeper human connection.
In the essay, Corrigan argues that modern culture often rewards being right over being reflective. The pressure to have immediate answers, she suggests, can leave little room for wonder or learning. By contrast, admitting uncertainty allows individuals to remain open to new perspectives, new understanding, and more authentic dialogue.
Her message arrives at a time when public discourse is increasingly polarized, and confidence is often mistaken for credibility. Corrigan’s essay offers a quieter, more human alternative: the idea that acknowledging our limits can be the very thing that brings us closer to one another.
Corrigan, widely recognized for her ability to find meaning in everyday moments, has built a career around thoughtful reflection through memoir, conversation, and storytelling. With multiple New York Times bestselling books, her PBS interview series Tell Me More, and her podcast and NPR Show Kelly Corrigan Wonders, she has become a prominent voice encouraging audiences to slow down and engage more honestly with life’s complexities.
As Corrigan continues to engage audiences through her writing and media work, her latest contribution serves as a reminder that uncertainty is not something to fear—but something that can lead us toward deeper understanding.