The Israel Center for Addiction and Mental Health

at the Hebrew University (ICAMH) invites you to a symposium

Wisdom in Action –

The Psychology of Thinking and Acting from Wisdom

What is the state of consciousness we call WISDOM—and how does this ancient concept translate into scientific, psychological, and cultural languages? In this symposium, we will explore contemporary models and the latest research findings in the field of wisdom research: How is wisdom distinct from mindfulness, resilience, or post-traumatic growth—and how does it support them? And no less importantly, what actions and responses characterize “acting from wisdom” during times of social and personal disintegration? In the first part of the day, we will delve into a field of research that examines a state of consciousness that has accompanied humanity for thousands of years. We will draw a line connecting ancient traditions—from the Buddha and the prophets of Israel—through the psychology of Carl Jung and attachment theory, to the forefront of brain research and the life sciences. We will ask whether a shared language around the concept of wisdom can serve as a bridge between communities, sectors, and cultures. In the second part, we will focus on practical application in the field: What is the role of mental health and caregiving professionals in fostering “responsible adults” who act from wisdom? Through a case study of societies living in complex conditions—including Arab society in Israel—we will examine the critical role of a wisdom-based response as a tool for survival, growth, and social change.

The conference will take place on Tuesday February 17, 2026

at the Daniel Jusidman Auditorium, Reichman University, Herzliya

Lectures will be in Hebrew and English

Participants (in order):
Prof. Nava Levit-Ben Nun, Reichman University

Prof. Mario Mikulincer, ICAMH and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Dr. Ido Samion, Israel Hakomi Institute

Prof. Judith Glück, University of Klagenfurt, Austria

Prof. Yossi Levy Belz, Rupin Academic Center

Prof. Anat Klomek-Bronstein, Reichman University

Dr. Roni Pashdetsky, Reichman University

Tali Helman-Mor, Shutafim LaMasa

Niv Agam, Dreamers House

Iyad Barghouti, Van Leer Institute

Ahmad Mohana, Qudra – Arab Philanthropists Network

Dr. Rajda Al-Nabulsi, Rupin Academic Center

Adv. Hanan Al-Sana, Itach Ma’aki – Women Lawyers for Social Justice

For Symposium Program and registration, please click here