The belief in individual knowledge can lead to irrational behavior from "summary" of The Knowledge Illusion by Steven Sloman,Philip Fernbach
The idea that we each possess a vast store of knowledge is a common misconception. We tend to overestimate our own understanding of the world around us. This overestimation can lead to irrational behavior. When we believe we have all the answers, we become closed off to new information and perspectives. This can prevent us from learning and growing as individuals. In reality, our knowledge is limited and incomplete. We rely on others to fill in the gaps in our understanding. This is known as "distributed cognition." When we recognize that our knowledge is shared, we are more open to new ideas and better able to make informed decisions. However, when we cling to the illusion of individual knowledge, we are more likely to make irrational choices. One example of this phenomenon is the spread of misinformation. When we believe we have all the facts, we are less likely to question the accuracy of the information we encounter. This can lead us to accept false beliefs and make decisions based on faulty assumptions. In contrast, when we acknowledge the limits of our knowledge, we are more likely to seek out multiple sources of information and critically evaluate the evidence. Another consequence of the belief in individual knowledge is a lack of humility. When we think we have all the answers, we may become arrogant and dismissive of others' perspectives. This can lead to conflict and misunderstandings. On the other hand, when we recognize that our knowledge is limited, we are more likely to approach discussions with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others.- The belief in individual knowledge can lead to irrational behavior. By acknowledging the limits of our understanding and embracing the idea of distributed cognition, we can become more open-minded, informed, and rational individuals. It is important to remember that we are all interconnected and reliant on each other for knowledge and insight.
