Abstract

When considering “Stupidity” in such works, it is important to distinguish between the word and the phenomenon. The word stems from the Latin stupere , meaning dumb or astounded and is related to “Stupor”. It may be used to designate a mentality which is informed, deliberate and maladaptive but nevertheless normal. Usually, the term “Stupidity” is used like an extreme swear word-a put-down for those deemed intellectually inferior although this tactic may reveal more about the attitude of the user than the cognitive abilities of the designatee(s). On the other hand, as a disparaging term for members of an outgroup, the word “Stupidity” often indicates little more than a biased evaluation of behavior. If we do “X” it is smart or necessary; if they do “X” it is stupid [1].