Intellectual Humility Test (CIHS)

The Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale (CIHS) was developed in 2016 by psychologists Elizabeth J. Krumrei-Mancuso and Steven V. Rouse to measure a person's willingness to recognize the limitations of their knowledge and remain open to new evidence. Intellectual humility has long been discussed in philosophy, but psychology required a rigorous, empirically validated tool to assess it as a measurable personality trait. Krumrei-Mancuso and Rouse defined intellectual humility as a non-defensive attitude toward ideas, characterized by an awareness that one's beliefs could be mistaken, a willingness to revise opinions in light of good reasons, and a genuine respect for differing perspectives.

This assessment profiles intellectual humility across four distinct facets derived from the CIHS. Ego Independence reflects how well you separate your personal self-worth from your beliefs, allowing you to engage in disagreements without feeling personally attacked or threatened. Open to Revision measures your readiness to change your position on important issues when confronted with compelling evidence or sound counterarguments. Respect for Views captures your ability to value and respect people who hold perspectives different from your own, even on deeply meaningful topics. Finally, Low Overconfidence assesses your awareness that your ideas are not inherently superior to those of others and that you still have much to learn.

Research using the CIHS has demonstrated that intellectual humility plays a key role in personal growth, effective learning, and constructive social interactions. Individuals who score high in intellectual humility tend to show greater curiosity, a stronger desire for knowledge, and lower levels of dogmatism and ideological rigidity. They are more adept at evaluating argument quality objectively, distinguishing between strong evidence and weak claims regardless of whether the information aligns with their prior convictions. In interpersonal relationships and public discourse, intellectual humility fosters empathy, reduces political polarization, and promotes respectful dialogue across deep disagreements.

The four facet scores are combined to offer an overall reflection of your intellectual humility, presented as a percentage running from low to high. Alongside your profile, the chart includes estimated comparison markers representing average scores from published research samples. These markers provide a general point of reference rather than validated percentile rankings or precise normative benchmarks for this specific online assessment. Seeing where a typical adult sample lands offers a helpful context for interpreting your results without implying a definitive rating of your intellectual character.

A high score on this assessment indicates a strong inclination toward open-mindedness and intellectual flexibility, while a lower score suggests a preference for conviction and conviction stability. Neither result represents a moral judgment or a permanent trait. Intellectual humility is dynamic and can vary depending on the topic, social context, or emotional stakes involved in a debate. Reflecting on your score can help you identify areas where you might benefit from greater openness or self-awareness when navigating complex topics and differing viewpoints.

This test is provided for educational and self-reflection purposes only. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a clinical assessment of cognitive or psychological functioning. This assessment is based on the Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale (CIHS) and is not affiliated with Elizabeth J. Krumrei-Mancuso, Steven V. Rouse, Pepperdine University, or any associated institutions. If you wish to explore your intellectual habits further, consider discussing your results with peers, educators, or a qualified professional.

References

• Krumrei-Mancuso, E. J. & Rouse, S. V. (2015). The Development and Validation of the Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale. Journal of Personality Assessment, 98(2), 209-221.