The Phenomenon of "Stupid Resonance"
This article explores the concept of "stupid resonance," a phenomenon described by sociologist Goffman, and its amplification in the internet age. It examines why individuals with lower cognitive abilities are susceptible to this resonance, and offers strategies to avoid falling into this trap.
Understanding Stupid Resonance
Many assume that geniuses are more likely to achieve recognition, but this isn't always the case. Geniuses possess unique ideas and often know better, making them less prone to groupthink. On the other hand, individuals with lower cognitive abilities can experience a phenomenon called "stupid resonance" when they come together.
The Logical Chain of Stupid Resonance
The resonance between individuals with lower cognitive abilities follows a specific logical chain:
- Low Recognition: People with lower cognitive skills often find that their abilities are not valued or appreciated, leading to low self-esteem.
- Desire for Recognition: This lack of recognition creates a strong desire to be acknowledged and validated.
- Extreme Excitement: When these individuals connect online or in real life and find others like them, they experience extreme excitement and a sense of belonging.
- Belief in Myths and Panic: This shared excitement can lead them to believe in myths and create panic among themselves.
- Majority Rule as Truth: Individuals with lower cognitive abilities often believe that if a majority of people think something is true, then it must be true.
Why High-Cognitive Individuals Don't Intervene
There are several reasons why individuals with higher cognitive abilities may not challenge the beliefs of those experiencing stupid resonance:
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Laziness: They may simply be too apathetic to engage.
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Lack of Common Ground: A fundamental shared premise is needed for meaningful discussion, which is often lacking with those who don't rely on logic.
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Fear: Fear of social ostracization or ridicule can prevent them from speaking out. For example, if everyone around you believes in marriage, it's difficult to voice differing opinions.
The Internet's Amplification of Stupid Resonance
The internet significantly amplifies stupid resonance due to its ability to connect like-minded individuals regardless of location. This readily available confirmation of beliefs can be incredibly reinforcing. As Sunstein discussed in The Network Republic, news reviews and verticalized content lead to narrower and narrower knowledge, creating an echo chamber effect where people only hear what they already believe, reinforcing their existing biases and making them more stubborn.
Gustave Le Bon and Crowd Psychology
French psychologist Gustave Le Bon observed that individuals often lose their independent thinking when they become part of a crowd. Key aspects of crowd behavior include:
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Loss of Individuality: People become members of the group rather than individuals, diminishing personal responsibility.
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Infectiousness: Group viewpoints, especially extreme ones, are easily spread, suppressing critical thinking.
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Suggestibility: Individuals are more susceptible to suggestions and hints within a group, especially when repeated frequently.
Examples of Lost Critical Thinking
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The author mentioned about people who praised and criticized Wu Jing. Both groups lost their critical thinking abilities during a wave of certain movie.
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People who praised and scolded Dong Yuhui. People treated him as a playboy. Is he that perfect? No. But today, people who curse Dong Yuhui said that because of his four lines of lines, he cut him off. Is it worth it? It's not worth it.
How to Avoid Falling into the Trap
To avoid falling into the trap of stupid resonance, the author suggests three methods:
- Theoretical (Critical) Thinking: Develop the ability to analyze information objectively, considering both positive and negative perspectives before drawing conclusions. Avoid all-in approach.
- Read More Books: Books provide a formal, well-vetted source of information from diverse perspectives. Even if a person is stupid, he has to think about his thoughts for a long time.
- Use Common Sense: Question information that seems illogical or contradicts common sense. Consider if you are missing key information.
By mastering these three points, individuals can avoid narrow-mindedness and the dangers of crowd mentality.
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