If you want to know who has privilege, look for the people who are allowed to be catastrophically wrong in public without losing status. — JA Westenberg
Perhaps reader you have felt it, during that moment when you are laying out an idea you worked on building internally for a while, only to be met with low-effort confusion and indifference, possibly because you have not conformed enough to the low attention span, said the “right keywords” or otherwise fit under the boxes you are allowed to. Or that other moment when you are experiencing what you could modestly and respectfully describe as “could be improved”, only to be met with hostile opposition and manipulative squashing techniques. Or so many other moments where you doubt the ability of people around you to engage in meaningful, productive discourse.
Watch: Idiocracy (2006)
Though, don’t be fooled by the subtle classism that “intelligent” people are portrayed as wealthy, and “idiots” are countryside poors. It is not a serious movie.
In many Egyptian communities, disagreement is often viewed as a threat rather than an opportunity for growth. This cultural norm stifles discourse and discourages the exploration of diverse viewpoints. This not only limits the exchange of ideas but also insulates the dominant narrative from any scrutiny. The privilege of idiocy thrives in an environment where dissent is silenced, leaving little room for innovation or progress. To counter this, we must embrace the discomfort of disagreement. Encouraging open dialogue, even when it feels challenging, is the only way to richer understanding and collaboration. By fostering a culture that values diverse opinions, we can break free from the shackles of conformity and ignite the spark of creativity.
In Egypt, as in many parts of the world, the digital age has revolutionized the way people access news and share opinions. However, it has also ushered in an era where misinformation and disinformation can flourish with little resistance. Whether through profit-driven technocolonial social media, or traditional word-of-mouth channels, narratives—both political and social—often bypass rigorous fact-checking. Misinformation spreads like wildfire, fueled by social media and sensationalist narratives. In Egypt, where historical and political contexts are often complex, the propagation of falsehoods can have dire consequences. The privilege of idiocy, in this sense, is not merely a personal failing but a societal one, where individuals are lulled into complacency by the allure of easy answers. However, recognizing this dynamic is the first step toward defense. By equipping ourselves with critical thinking skills and a commitment to seeking out reliable independent sources, we can break down these barriers and foster an environment in which truth holds sway over sensationalism. Engaging in discussions that challenge prevailing narratives can help dismantle the echo chambers that perpetuate ignorance.
Creative writing, a powerful tool for self-expression and societal reflection, often finds itself marginalized in a culture that uses conformity to crush individuality. The privilege of idiocy is evident in our collective inability to engage deeply with complex ideas. This phenomenon not only hampers personal growth but also undermines societal progress. To combat this, we must cultivate habits that promote sustained focus and critical engagement. Setting aside time for reading, reflection, and meaningful conversations can help us reclaim our attention and foster a culture of thoughtful discourse. We must support writers who dare to explore unconventional ideas. By creating supportive, positive and empathetic platforms for diverse narratives, we can enrich our cultural landscape and inspire future generations to think critically and creatively.
Historically, those in positions of power have often relied on a divided and disoriented public. The strategy is as old as time: fragment potential opposition by sowing discord, ensuring that the collective force of a unified people remains an unreachable ideal. In an age of
instant gratification, low attention spans have become the cultural norm. When citizens are so occupied with personal disagreements or the short-term allure of sensationalism (“trend”), they become less likely to coalesce into movements that drive real, systemic change. Think about all the times you heard a powerful person being ridiculed online or by people watching the TV, think of all the energy and attention wasted by aimless and unproductive rants. The people have been duped to constantly consume a cycle of rage bait “content” in order to stifle positive and changing productive solutions to the problems they face. However, understanding this manipulation offers a path forward. By seeking strength in unity, learning from history, and engaging in constructive, solution-oriented discourse, we pave the way for a society where power is derived not from the ability to divide us, but from our collective wisdom and resilience.
A Call to Action
The challenges we face today—from rampant misinformation and the erosion of a culture of genuine dialogue to the societal acceptance of shallow, quick-fix information—are multifaceted and interconnected. There is no single solution or silver bullet. Instead, what is required is a renewed commitment to thinking deeply, engaging in respectful debate, and nurturing our creative impulses. Each of us holds the power to resist the lure of easy answers by questioning assumptions, challenging dominant narratives, and seeking out a richer, more diverse dialogue.
The privilege of idiocy is not an insurmountable barrier; it is a challenge that we can collectively overcome. By fostering critical thinking, embracing disagreement, supporting creative expression, cultivating attention, promoting tolerance, and challenging logical fallacies, we can create a society that values knowledge and diversity. Each of us has a role to play in this endeavor, and together, we can resist the tide of ignorance for our own benefit and the benefit of society as a whole.
Consider this a call to arms—a reminder that our best defense against the intellectual decay of modern society is the cultivation of an engaged citizenry. When we come together to share, learn, and grow, we not only safeguard our own well-being but also contribute to the higher purpose of building a society that truly celebrates diversity of thought and collective empowerment.
In the face of adversity, let us rise to the occasion, armed with the tools of knowledge and understanding. The future of Egypt—and indeed, the world—depends on our willingness to engage, to question, and to create a more literate society. The privilege of idiocy may be pervasive, but it is not our destiny. Let us choose a different path, one illuminated by the light of reason and the richness of diverse perspectives. Embrace critical thought. Engage compassionately. Illuminate the darkness with truth.
Here are some ideas that may inspire and habits you might adopt:
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Regularly question the sources of the information you consume. Seek a scientific or otherwise journalistic credible source. Cross-check news stories with multiple, reputable outlets.
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Always share original and accessible sources for information that provide the most vivid context and reward its readers to those around you. Build an informed circle.
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Engage with resources on logical fallacies and bias so you can recognize them in conversations and media.
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Create or join inclusive spaces where individuals from various backgrounds can come together to share ideas and collaborate.
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Practice active listening: take time to understand others’ arguments fully before responding.
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Engage in literacy workshops and book clubs. Learn reading and writing skills. No matter your interest, profession, experience or age, you will always find value in reading and writing.
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Allocate time for uninterrupted reading of in-depth analysis rather than just bite-sized summaries.
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Recognize that differing opinions will exist; develop patience and empathy to understand and bridge gaps.
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Seek to understand opposing viewpoints and engage respectfully in conversations with those who hold different beliefs.
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Take time for reflection and self-awareness. Don’t let the social and economic rat race distort your mirrors. Practice self-care and balance to maintain your capacity for critical thinking and creativity.
And to save the best for last…
- Remain open to change—both in your personal beliefs and in systems that you can influence collectively.