Conclusion
Empirical research on humility in the tradition of psychological science has relied too heavily on an approach to measurement characterized by verbal self-reports of a stable and general characteristic.
As outlined in this chapter, many alternative approaches could be used, potentially to substantial benefit. Broadening the types of measurement approaches used in research on humility would suggest new avenues of research, the results of which would deepen our understanding of the concept. More thoughtful decisions about how to measure humility for specific populations and research questions would likely produce evidence of stronger associations with important outcomes than is evident at this time. The fundamental importance of measurement to progress in research on humility underscores the need for greater diversity and creativity in measures of the concept.Acknowledgement
The writing of this chapter was generously supported by the John Templeton Foundation, Grant No. 60622,“Developing Humility in Leaders.”
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