The Self Destructive Nature of Humans: Why Smart People Do Stupid Things

The Self Destructive Nature of Humans: Why Smart People Do Stupid Things

In today's world, it seems that smart people are not immune to making foolish decisions. Despite their intelligence and knowledge, they often find themselves falling into the trap of self-destructive behavior. But why does this happen? Why do smart individuals make stupid choices?

One possible explanation is the lack of discomfort in their lives. Tim Ferris once said, "The more you schedule and practice discomfort deliberately, the less unplanned discomfort will throw off your life and control your life." This quote suggests that without deliberately seeking discomfort and challenging themselves, smart individuals may become complacent and make impulsive decisions.

But what does discomfort have to do with making stupid choices? Well, when we become too comfortable and settle into a routine, we may start seeking excitement and thrill in other areas of our lives. This can lead to risky behavior and poor decision-making. By intentionally incorporating discomfort into our lives, we can build resilience and avoid the temptation of self-destructive actions.

Another factor that contributes to smart people making stupid choices is the influence of external factors, particularly in the realm of content moderation. In the age of social media and online platforms, engagement has become the holy metric. What matters most is whether or not the user is stirred. Trustworthiness takes a backseat to the goal of maximizing engagement.

However, Substack, a popular platform for writers, takes a different approach. Their key metric is not engagement, but rather writer revenue. They believe that the power of the attention economy should be subverted and that people, not platforms, should be in control. Substack allows readers to choose which writers they support and invite into their inboxes. This emphasis on trust and reader choice sets Substack apart from other platforms.

Substack's belief in subscriptions over advertising is a unique perspective. They argue that letting people choose who to trust, rather than relying on click-maximizing algorithms, is better for democracy and the overall media ecosystem. By hosting a broad range of views, Substack aims to strengthen discourse and provide a platform for diverse voices.

So, how can we apply these insights to our own lives and avoid falling into the trap of self-destruction? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace discomfort: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone regularly. Seek out new experiences and deliberately practice discomfort. This will build resilience and prevent you from seeking excitement in self-destructive behavior.

• 2. Choose trustworthy sources: In a world where engagement is prioritized over trustworthiness, it's important to be selective about the content you consume. Seek out sources that prioritize transparency, integrity, and diverse perspectives. Platforms like Substack can be a great starting point.

• 3. Take control of your own narrative: Don't let algorithms and clickbait dictate your worldview. Be proactive in choosing the information you consume and the voices you support. By actively engaging with content that aligns with your values and challenges your perspectives, you can avoid falling into the trap of mindless engagement.

In conclusion, the self-destructive nature of humans is not limited to those lacking intelligence. Smart individuals are also prone to making foolish choices. By embracing discomfort, prioritizing trustworthiness, and taking control of our own narrative, we can navigate the complexities of our world and make better decisions. Let us strive to break free from the cycle of self-destruction and create a better future for ourselves and our society.