wisdom and self-protection; wise self-preservation
A yojijukugo describing the ability to use one's wisdom to protect oneself from danger or trouble. Often carries a nuance of prudently avoiding unnecessary risks.
With a spirit of wise self-preservation, he doesn't take unnecessary risks.
Sometimes wise self-protection is necessary.
保身 means self-protection or self-preservation, often with a slightly negative nuance of selfishness. 明哲保身 adds the element of wisdom, making it a more positive or neutral concept.
From the Chinese classic 『詩経』, whose phrase 既明且哲、以保其身 praises one who is discerning and thereby preserves himself.