As science historian Michael Shermer notes, “Smart people…
““As science historian Michael Shermer notes, “Smart people believe weird things because they are better at rationalizing their beliefs that they hold for non-smart reasons.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intelligent people often adopt irrational beliefs because they rationalize them better than less intelligent people.
In simple terms: Smart folks rationalize weird ideas better.
Key Takeaway
Question your rationalizations.
Themes
cognition
belief
rationality
Mood
analytical
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- debates
- education
- personal growth
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
self‑deception
intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify when rationalization is masking bias?
- Can intelligence protect against irrationality?
A Different Perspective
People may lack awareness of their own biases.