Social media today post-Covid-19 is seeing a world full of know-it-alls, who don’t have any idea of what they are talking about.  Everyone seems to be claiming a deep knowledge in the field, without actually having any experience whatsoever.  They seem to be doing so with confidence.  The irony is that the less knowledge they seem to possess, the more confident they seem to appear.

This is a phenomenon you must become aware of, in order for you to differentiate those spreading lies and fake news from the truth-Sayers.

This is called the “Dunning Kruger Effect”, which can be quite harmful if the actions and words have consequences.  Especially when it comes from those who are in positions of power and authority.  This effect means that people with low ability at a task overestimate their ability.

This effect is seen in a more pronounced manner today than ever before after Covid-19 struck the world with devastating consequences.

We had Heads of States claiming that there was nothing to worry about, to some who confidently stated that having a particular drug will effectively cure the infection.  We also have some who seem to have already found some miracle drug and alternative therapy which would heal the world.

Post the discovery of vaccines for Covid-19, we have another evidence of the “Dunning Kruger Effect” taking place.  There are people who seem to have no idea of the scientific basis behind these vaccines and their efficacy confidently talking about the pros and cons of it on social media.  The more incompetent they are the more confident they seem to appear.  This social media trolls spreading all sorts of lies and misinformation are creating havoc in the minds of the already stressed and stretched population.  The news media is adding the multiplier effect, what with anchors and their guests sitting and debating with confidence about something which they know nothing of.

It’s not just about the pandemic, we find this effect all around us. The few I can think of are the self-proclaimed gurus, mindfulness coaches, meditation and yoga experts, success coaches, alternate therapists…. The list is long.  LinkedIn is one such platform which is now showing ample evidence of the Dunning Kruger Effect.

Agree?  Can you think of more areas where this is seen?