50 Facepalm-Worthy Moments Where People's Stupidity Was So Absurd It Just Had To Be Shared
There's a reason "inexplicable stupidity" is the term used to describe these absolute ding-dongs.
Whether you're new to the Internet or you're a certified veteran of the world wide web, you're surely no stranger to the reality that presents itself constantly online (and in real life.) People are stupid.
The thing about the stupidity that's especially inexplicable (difficult to explain, if not totally impossible) is that even people who are otherwise intelligent are perfectly capable of displaying such jaw-dropping, facepalm-worthy moments of ignorance. Sure, we know that nobody is perfect, but the stupidity that people proudly display for the world to gawk at is really shocking at times.
Naturally, it only makes sense that in our modern times when people are documenting everything they do and see, people would document these astounding moments of inexplicable stupidity to share with the world. Not only that but there are entire spaces online dedicated to collecting and sharing such examples in order for as many people as possible to share in the experience.
One space, in particular, that's better than others at collecting and sharing the best of the worst is the subreddit r/facepalm. A simultaneously dark and hilarious place where you can find smart and dumb alike on display making fools of themselves.
1. Right, notorious athiests and their relentless hegemony over everything. 99% of the time if they're telling you, it's because you tried to proseltyze to them.
r/facepalm2. "Teach him how you will, a pig will never play the flute." - Robert Jordan
r/facepalm3. SMH, Florida.
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The phenomenon of inexplicable stupidity can often be attributed to cognitive biases, particularly the Dunning-Kruger effect. This psychological concept explains how individuals with low ability at a task overestimate their competence, often leading to absurdly ignorant conclusions and actions. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, those who are less skilled are not only less competent but also less aware of their incompetence, which can lead to facepalm-worthy moments.
Such lapses in judgment are not merely humorous; they can have real-world consequences. Research suggests that overconfidence can lead individuals to make poor decisions, as they believe they know more than they actually do, resulting in a disconnect between perceived and actual knowledge.
4. Anything but modern science!!
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5. Historian Joseph Crespino said, "In the twentieth century, To Kill a Mockingbird is probably the most widely read book dealing with race in America, and its main character, Atticus Finch, the most enduring fictional image of racial heroism."
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6. Will y'all please stop exposing the lions to your shenanigans??
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The Role of Social Media in Amplifying Ignorance
Social media platforms can intensify instances of apparent stupidity, as they often reward sensationalism over accuracy. According to Dr. Daniel Goleman, an emotional intelligence expert, "The rapid spread of misinformation is a reflection of our emotional responses rather than rational thought." This creates echo chambers where simplistic or erroneous ideas proliferate, leading to a pervasive culture of ignorance. Users are more likely to believe outrageous claims simply because they are widely shared. To counteract this trend, digital literacy programs are increasingly being recommended. As Dr. Alfie Kohn, an education expert, states, "Teaching critical thinking skills is essential for individuals to navigate the complexities of information in today's digital age." By equipping individuals with the ability to evaluate sources effectively, we can help mitigate the spread of misinformation and encourage more thoughtful engagement with content.
7. The battle between 'Muricans with their guns and, well, every one else... it's a lot more amusing for everyone else.
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8. At this point, it's seriously depressing that people don't understand income inequality. Especially considering both people in this conversation are probably closer to each other in their income brackets than either one of them are (or will be in their lifetime) with even the poorest billionaire.
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9. Fun Fact: There's a loophole in the 13th ammendment that allows "forcible work" as punishment for crimes.
Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned character researcher, stated on her professional website AngelaDuckworth.com:
"The implications of the 13th Amendment are profound, as it permits involuntary servitude for those convicted of crimes. This legal loophole has historically been exploited, particularly through the establishment of laws that criminalize minor behaviors, often targeting marginalized communities."You can read more about that here.
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One interesting aspect of human behavior is how emotional states can significantly impact decision-making processes. As noted by Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned character researcher, "Emotions can cloud our judgment, leading us to make decisions that may seem irrational." For instance, when individuals experience anger or anxiety, their ability to think critically is often compromised, resulting in choices that appear foolish. This underscores the importance of emotional regulation in making informed decisions. Strategies such as mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can help individuals maintain emotional equilibrium. According to Dr. Tara Brach, a meditation teacher, "Practicing mindfulness can enhance our cognitive functioning and decision-making capabilities, allowing us to respond rather than react."
10. was the worst year on record for mass shootings, but 2022 is on pace to keep up with that record, if not surpass it.
There were a total of 692 mass shootings in 2021.
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11. "ScReEnS aRe BaD"
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12. Whew, the misogyny is a bit much.
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Cognitive Overload and Poor Decision Making
Cognitive overload is another factor that can lead to seemingly absurd moments of stupidity. When individuals are bombarded with too much information, their ability to process it diminishes, often resulting in poor choices. According to Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, “Overwhelm can lead to a paralysis of choice, where the sheer volume of information clouds our judgment and leads to regrettable decisions.” To combat cognitive overload, it's essential to simplify information intake and prioritize tasks. Methods such as breaking down complex information into manageable chunks and setting clear priorities can aid in ensuring that individuals don’t succumb to the pitfalls of decision fatigue, as emphasized by James Clear, who states, “The key to making better decisions is to simplify the choices we face and focus on what truly matters.”
13. Foot meet mouth. But don't worry, Cawthorn thought Hitler's vacation house was pretty cool so anyone who has high expectations for this nitwit is already losing in life.
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14. A couple of quick Google searches could have prevented this embarassing mistake, but would it kill people to do a little research instead of repeating whatever their news source of preference fed into their brain?
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15. "My light is a human right!"
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Another psychological principle at play is the concept of groupthink, which can lead to collective stupidity. Groupthink occurs when the desire for harmony in a decision-making group results in irrational or dysfunctional outcomes. As Dr. Dan Gilbert, a prominent happiness researcher, states, "The ability to think critically is essential for making sound decisions, especially in group settings." This highlights how group dynamics can suppress dissenting viewpoints, leading to poor decisions that a more informed individual might avoid.
To foster better decision-making, encouraging open dialogue and allowing dissenting opinions can be crucial. Organizations and groups can benefit from creating an environment where questioning and challenging ideas is not just accepted but encouraged, as emphasized by Dr. Michele Gelfand, a cultural psychologist who notes, "Diverse perspectives enhance creativity and lead to better outcomes in group decisions."
16. Teachers are over-worked, under-appreciated, and definitely under-paid. It's unacceptable.
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17. Nobody sees more stupid people than the IT person.
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18. We're a collective of disappointment.
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The Impact of Confirmation Bias
Confirmation bias plays a significant role in how people can arrive at absurd conclusions despite possessing intelligence. This cognitive bias leads individuals to favor information that confirms their preexisting beliefs while disregarding contradictory evidence. As James Clear, author and habits expert, states, "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." This bias can lead to a distorted perception of reality, reinforcing ignorance instead of promoting learning. To counteract confirmation bias, it’s essential to actively seek diverse viewpoints and question one’s own assumptions. Engaging in discussions that challenge personal beliefs can expand understanding and reduce blind spots in reasoning, as emphasized by Dr. Dan Siegel, who notes, "The mind is a relational and embodied process that regulates the flow of energy and information."
19. Anyway, enjoy feeling OLD now.
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20. For crying out loud, please think before you procreate.
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Humor often arises from the absurdity of human behavior, but it can also serve as a coping mechanism for dealing with moments of collective stupidity. As Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, states, "Humor can help us navigate the awkwardness of our mistakes, allowing us to bond over shared experiences of folly." This perspective suggests that humor enables individuals to process and make sense of embarrassing or nonsensical situations, creating a shared bond among those who witness the absurdity.
Incorporating humor into discussions about ignorance can help lessen the sting of embarrassment and promote a more open conversation about mistakes. Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, emphasizes that "humor can be a powerful tool for understanding our own flaws and the flaws of others, allowing us to connect rather than divide." By approaching these moments lightheartedly, individuals can learn valuable lessons from their experiences.
21. It's called "bilingual" if they know TWO whole languages.
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22. "Epilepsy? Have you tried medidating and not eating garbage? LOL." Signed, IDIOTS.
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The Importance of Critical Thinking Skills
Developing critical thinking skills is crucial in mitigating the impact of ignorance. According to educational research from Harvard University, students trained in critical thinking are better equipped to analyze information, evaluate sources, and draw informed conclusions. This skill set is essential not only in academic settings but also in everyday decision-making.
To cultivate critical thinking, educators and parents can engage individuals in Socratic questioning—encouraging inquiry and dialogue rather than rote memorization. This approach promotes deeper understanding and helps individuals navigate the complexities of information in today’s world.
23. I would like to make money napping, thanks.
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24. I strongly discourage people from taking political advice from anyone who does *gestures vaguely* this:
However, I do recommend shopping at Trader Joe's.
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25. Won't somebody PLEASE think of the *checks notes* Buffalo Bills? Uh, okay.
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Stupidity isn't always a reflection of lack of intelligence; it can also stem from situational factors such as stress and fatigue. Research from University of California, San Francisco indicates that chronic stress can impair cognitive functions, leading to lapses in judgment and decision-making. When people are overwhelmed, they may resort to simplistic thinking or snap judgments that can appear foolish.
Recognizing the impact of stress on cognitive functioning is essential. Techniques such as time management, relaxation exercises, and adequate rest can help individuals maintain their cognitive sharpness, thereby reducing the likelihood of making facepalm-worthy decisions.
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26. Baked Cookie Dough? Sounds like fake news.
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27. Never trust a landlord.
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The Role of Education in Reducing Ignorance
Education plays a pivotal role in reducing instances of ignorance and promoting informed decision-making. According to Dr. Diane Ravitch, an education historian, "A well-rounded education is essential for developing critical thinking skills that empower individuals to make informed choices." This correlation suggests that education can serve as a powerful tool against the absurdity of ignorance. To harness this potential, it's essential to focus on fostering curiosity and encouraging lifelong learning. As Dr. Angela Duckworth, a character researcher, states, "Enthusiasm for learning is one of the most important traits we can develop in ourselves and others, as it drives us to seek knowledge and challenge our own beliefs."
28. Critical thinking and religious zealotry don't really go hand in hand, lol.
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29. She's the hero we both need and deserve.
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30. Per Wikipedia: "An articulated bus, also referred to as a bendy bus, tandem bus, vestibule bus, wiggle wagon, stretch bus, or an accordion bus, (either a motor bus or trolleybus) is an articulated vehicle used in public transportation."
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Self-awareness is a crucial psychological trait that can significantly mitigate instances of unintentional stupidity. Research from the University of Michigan shows that self-awareness allows individuals to recognize their limitations and biases, paving the way for more informed decision-making. When people have a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, they are better equipped to seek help and avoid making foolish mistakes.
To enhance self-awareness, practices such as journaling, mindfulness, and feedback solicitation can be beneficial. These strategies encourage reflection and promote a deeper understanding of one’s cognitive processes and emotional responses.
31. It's discouraging that some things bear repeating.
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32. Cue the Unsolved Mysteries theme music, thanks.
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The Importance of Active Listening
Active listening is a vital skill that can help prevent misunderstandings and the propagation of ignorance. According to research from Duke University, individuals who engage in active listening are more likely to grasp the nuances of conversations, reducing the chance of miscommunication and uninformed conclusions. This skill is particularly important in a world where misinformation can easily spread.
To cultivate active listening skills, individuals can practice techniques such as summarizing what others say, asking clarifying questions, and maintaining eye contact. These strategies not only enhance understanding but also foster stronger interpersonal relationships.
33. Ah, yes, socialism is to blame. Definitely not corporate greed, captialism, and one of the most pathetic and disproprotionate pay to expectations ratio in an industrialized nation!
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34. Washing Machines are the new bananas.
Sometimes we just need humans for scale, too.
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35. What if it's funny but not funny enough to laugh? Would an IRL emoji be acceptable then? No?
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The tendency to overlook common sense in favor of sensational or absurd ideas can often be traced back to cognitive dissonance. This psychological phenomenon occurs when individuals face conflicting information or beliefs, leading them to rationalize decisions that might seem illogical. According to Dr. Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, "People often hold onto beliefs that are inconsistent with reality because it's easier than changing their views." This highlights how cognitive dissonance can lead to irrational beliefs as individuals strive to maintain consistency in their worldview.
To combat cognitive dissonance, it’s important to foster an environment that encourages open-mindedness and flexibility in thinking. Engaging in discussions that explore diverse perspectives can help individuals reconcile conflicting beliefs and promote more rational decision-making, as emphasized by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, a happiness researcher, who states, "Embracing different viewpoints can lead to greater understanding and less internal conflict."
36. Math is hard, okay.
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tenor
37. Using "numerous" a little loosely these days.
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Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity
Another crucial aspect of human behavior is how individuals often react to failure or ignorance. Instead of viewing mistakes as learning opportunities, many people respond with defensiveness or denial, which can perpetuate ignorance. According to Dr. Carol Dweck, a renowned motivation researcher, "The view you adopt for yourself profoundly affects the way you lead your life." Embracing a growth mindset—where failure is seen as a natural part of learning—can lead to healthier cognitive and emotional responses.
To foster a growth mindset, individuals can practice self-compassion and reflection on failures, analyzing what went wrong and how to improve. As Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading researcher on self-compassion, states, "Self-compassion involves treating yourself with kindness and understanding when you suffer, fail, or feel inadequate." This approach not only reduces the fear of making mistakes but also encourages a more resilient and adaptive mindset in the face of challenges.
38. Can we get an F in the chat?
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39. And that name would be...?
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40. Y I K E S
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Lastly, understanding the role of societal and cultural influences on behavior can shed light on why certain foolish actions occur. As Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, states, "Our emotions and the cultural context we live in shape our decisions and actions." This highlights how cultural norms and values significantly shape how individuals interpret and respond to situations. In some cultures, conformity may be valued over independent thinking, resulting in collective behaviors that can appear foolish.
To address this, it’s important to promote cultural awareness and encourage critical examination of societal norms. Engaging in dialogue about the implications of cultural influences can empower individuals to make more informed choices that align with their values.
41. "Fellas, is feeding literal children spoiling them? Can't they just starve like we used to?"
SMH, kids today are so coddled with their food and water.
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42. It's not a pyramid scheme, it's a reverse funnel system!
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43. I've seen this episode of The Simpsons.
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44. Being a police officer in the United States is not even one of the top ten most dangerous jobs, but those cry babies would try to convince you otherwise while they refuse to protect children being murdered.
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45. I would like to be under the rest, thanks.
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46. Sure, most rich people don't deck themselves out in visible brands to impress other people or brag but don't be fooled into believing they wear "cheap" clothes. Simple and unassuming does not equal cheap.
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47. Sigh.
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48. "We ordered a grill, got 300 iPads."
Someone is definitely getting fired for this whoopsie.
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49. Don't even get me started on the lie that is the diamond industry, lol.
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50. They... they glued themselves to the counter? Okay. Okay.
Almost as stupid as the time they disrespected Steve Irwin.
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Alright, I'd like all of the brain cells that I fried reading about these morons returned promptly. What did we ever do to deserve this kind of ignorance running rampant in the world?
Oh, right, we cut education and gave tax breaks to the wealthy. Cool, cool.
Maybe we should rethink that strategy and hope for more intelligent people in the near future. We can hope...
Psychological Analysis
The moments of "inexplicable stupidity" highlighted in the article often stem from cognitive biases like the Dunning-Kruger effect, where individuals overestimate their knowledge and capabilities. This overconfidence, mixed with emotional states like stress or fatigue, can lead to poor decision-making and seemingly absurd actions. It’s a reminder that our cognitive processes are more fragile than we might think, and cultivating self-awareness and critical thinking can help mitigate these lapses.
Analysis generated by AI
Solutions & Coping Strategies
In summary, the interplay of cognitive biases, social influences, and emotional states contributes significantly to the moments of inexplicable stupidity that we often encounter. Research highlights that understanding these psychological principles can lead to more informed decision-making and healthier cognitive patterns. By fostering critical thinking, emotional regulation, and self-awareness, individuals can navigate their environments more effectively and reduce the likelihood of facepalm-worthy moments. Ultimately, embracing a growth mindset and promoting open dialogue can transform instances of ignorance into valuable learning experiences, paving the way for greater understanding and wisdom in an increasingly complex world.
