Discussion of ‘Practical wisdom in an age of computerisation’ by David Blockley

ABSTRACT The writer agrees with the main point of the paper which is to emphasise the need for civil engineering systems engineers to have ‘practical wisdom’. Insofar as this is not clearly defined the discussion offers an example from practice where practical wisdom was lacking. Blockley’s paper lists major challenges, including computerisation. The present discussion suggests others as important additions, with the most important omission being the ‘black swans’ of complex and unexpected problems. System thinking is well placed to tackle such issues.