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wisdom is a virtue

The first thing the path invites us to do is to seek wisdom-to cultivate beneficial understanding and viewpoints on human nature, the universe, suffering, and liberation. ​​​​​​

Traditionally, right understanding asks that you learn about the buddha's story, as well as about the philosophies of the buddhist way of life. Right View takes the next step forward; it requires flipping the way you see the universe to be clear, undeluded by illusion, removing the imprint of desire and attachment--seeing the world for what it is, rather than as we would like it to be. 

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A more modern interpretation adds to this the call to learn about ancient and modern wisdom on human nature, the universe, suffering, and liberation. ​​Siddhartha existed 500 years before our common era, way before the scientific revolution, but his call for followers to test the principles of his philosophies and his focus on observable facts about the bodies we inhabit and the worlds we live within has, from modern eyes, it's own scientific spirit.  ​​​​​​​​​​It is unfathomable that an enlightened leader such as the Buddha would turn a blind eye on additional research and philosophy that sheds light on our existence and offers additional information paramount to walking a path of liberation.