It’s pretty obvious that most of us won’t become uniquely talented athletes or artists during our lives. So how should we respond to the notion that most of us are simply ordinary? Philosopher Derrick Darby suggests that by tapping into the power of the fifth element of hip hop -- “doing the knowledge” -- ordinary people can live remarkable lives.

Derrick Darby wonders how everyday people not destined for fame and fortune can live remarkable lives. He believes that by "doing the knowledge," and asking and answering questions we all want answers to, ordinary people can be extraordinary. Hailing from Queensbridge, New York, Derrick is currently a professor of philosophy at the University of Michigan where he writes about social justice issues.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx