We were watching a true crime drama about a gullible family who let a pedophile into their midst like inviting a fox to a hen-house, and my husband was exasperated. “Oh please, no one is that stupid,” he complained. I started to defend the family, saying that ultra-religious people in a small town might actually be that naive. Privately, I wondered if he was right; maybe the story was exaggerated for dramatic effect.
Later, we watched part 2 of The Vow, a documentary series about a cult whose leader made women get branded. The members of the cult were people with money, relatively sophisticated people with jobs in Hollywood or tech or marketing. I couldn’t believe how stupid they were to buy into this guy’s shit, when he is so clearly a manipulative little conman.
The next day, I read something about Trump supporters and then it hit me: People are SO FUCKING STUPID! I mean, the level and scope of stupidity all around us is just staggering.
Were people always this stupid? Did they just hide it better? Are we so desperate for a guru or daddy or deity to guide us that we’ll surrender all logic and critical thinking?
I’m at the point where if someone doesn’t despise Donald Trump, I don’t want to waste time on them. They’re too stupid. Recently, two acquaintances have explained to me that they don’t really hate Trump because “They’re all the same.” They elaborated by stating that all politicians are corrupt, blah blah blah. So they’re telling me that a cold is like Ebola? Where is the sense of proportion or discernment?
It’s not a Tribal thing; it’s not that I only like people with my politics or opinions. It’s just the stupidity. Make it stop!
I have started following the Kanye West debacle, because as in most debacles, it’s hard to look away. Actually, in this case I am constantly refreshing my google to see if I missed anything. I know you’re thinking, Ha ha, look how stupid YOU are! But I will only admit to an immature fascination with spectacle. And crazy people.
I am pleased to say that now even Anna Wintour is done with him. Today, he said that denouncing him only proves his point about Jews controlling everything, an old antisemitic canard he has evidently stumbled upon in his mania.
I am so fascinated by Kanye’s meltdown that I’ve started following an account on Instagram that covers everything he says or does. I’ve seen all the video clips that were edited out of his recent interviews, and he is one angry dude operating on some kind of messianic delusion, burning all his bridges as fast as he can.
The real stupidity here lies in the comments from his fans. The more antisemitic and aggrieved he is, the fiercer is their support. He speaks the truth! He’s the only one brave enough to call it out! Watch out, the Jews gonna kill him! Every millionth comment, someone will express dismay. I praised one of these people for trying to explain antisemitism, and I received this reaction: “You’re an OLD cat lady who will die alone!” (LOL, I hate cats.) She turned out to be a white lady who keeps showing her pregnant belly and her flock of Aryan looking kids. At least she’s open minded enough to stick up for a deranged Rap icon.
Drowning in stupidity, I have turned to Middlemarch, which I read as an 18 year old stoner. It was great then but even better now, because I’m more appreciative of the narrator’s stinging wit. Thank god I can still read, when I’m not watching crime TV or scrolling on my phone. Mostly, I am trying to navigate through the daily ennui of being an old cat lady who will die alone, so writing this has been cathartic.
How are you surviving the stupidity? Confessions or helpful hints? Let’s hear from you!
So happy to see you posted.
Yes, the stupidity has always been there, along with huge anti-semitic and racist groups. Now, they are more brazen.
I am an old Pug lady and watch a lot of crime shows as well and scroll my phone. I have one criteria for watching a reality show, they must have teeth. If they have visible teeth missing, I turn it.
Take care and know you aren’t the only one that hate others.
I will read Middlemarch on your rec.
Marla Griffith – Lol Pug lady! Yes, reality shows are difficult. I hear the British baking shows are good but, meh, not that bored yet. Thank you for your support re hate and all else xo
Sometimes I’ll see instructions for something on the internet and think “Wait, that’s definitely not a good way to do that…” and realize it is just much easier to spread misinformation than it ever has been before. Loud + obnoxious is preferred by the algorithm!
Always know that I love you Sister Wolf.
Sandra – So true. I’m training myself not to click on anything that offers advice on how to improve my life. And to say away from twitter, of course.
Andra – I love you too. Never leave me. xo
I have forwarded this one on to many friends. Thank You for making me laugh hysterically.
Poodle Lady – How nice of you! I often write just to make myself laugh, but it’s so much better when someone else laughs too!
This is why frat houses and other clubs exist: members get to affiliate with like-minded individuals who advance one another despite their stupidity. If you know the secret handshake or have a special ring then there’s a whole organization of people who will help cover up your stupid stupid actions. Otherwise you wind up on a documentary and all of your neighbors find out that you were so stupid that a guy tricked you into giving him a handjob and then blackmailed you into letting him marry your underage child. How mortifying is that?
Anyway, I’ll read Middlemarch if it means I can join your book club and you’ll help me cover up some crime stuff I’m thinking of doing.
Also: the midterms are here, all of you US citizens better be voting and trying to get your friends to vote.