Dunning-Kruger effect

[The_Corinthian]

This is possibly the most interesting thing I've read this week.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunning-Kruger_effect

I think it describes almost every believer I've met. If you're feeling in a particularly condescending mood, this would be a great page to quote to them.

[BillB]

Hi,

Interesting I could in the skeptical sense apply this “Dunning-Kruger effect” in general to a lot of people and not necessarily believers. There is no mention as to the belief status of those who took part in this study it was merely academic!!

BillB

[Dr B]

It seems like a specific example of a meta-cognitive belief-reasoning bias.

Somewhat akin to a self-serving attributional bias - but now directed at ones knowledge relative to the knolwedge of others. Other research has shown that this correlates with lack of education. In other words - those with less education do it more. 8)

The effect was known and investgated long beofre these dudes came along - but interesting stuff nonetheless.

[Admin]

Yes it's describing metacognition. Here's the paper: http://www.ukskeptics.com/documents/metacognition.pdf

Typical examples are those people who are liability at work but believe themselves to be indispensable.

[Mongrel]

Typical examples are those people who are liability at work but believe themselves to be indispensable.

Managers?

[BillB]

That whole dam “Dunning-Kruger effect” what with Halloween coming soon reminds me of Freddy Krueger and a nightmare on Elm Street.

[drj]

I agree with Dr B and John Jackson. A case in point is googling for information. While writing a history paper I investigated online claims and found all the topical claims to be false. The websites had copied information from each other while believing the information was correct. The lack of a real education in a topic leaves a person incapable of separating fact from fiction. From Unskilled and Unaware of It : “Not only do they reach erroneous conclusions and make unfortunate choices, but their incompetence robs them of the ability to realize it. Instead, like Mr. Wheeler, they are left with the mistaken impression that they are doing just fine.”

[Muttley]

There was a classic example of this in the "Enemies of Reason" programme aired a short while back, where some new-age practitioner of something-or-other had the temerity to "explain" to Richard Dawkins what DNA was. I think he said it came from Atlantis, or something similar. I wasn't really listening, I was watching Dawkins. He is so impassively polite with these people (give them enough rope....), but could I just detect a hint of imperfectly-concealed incredulity?

M.

[SKIRRID5]

Many many years ago, when the cancer dangers of smoking were first being publicised (I'm that old!) an old fellow called Tom, pooh-poohing the idea, said in my hearing, of the scientists " They're no better men than what I am."
The notable thing about Tom was that he was completely illiterate.
Of course the scientists weren't "better men" whatever that means, but I was sorely tempted to say " At least they could read the bloody evidence." I didn't, you'll be pleased to hear.
Anyone remember Peter Cook's character E.L. Wisty?
"I could have been a judge, but I didn't have the Latin"

[Lord Muck oGentry]

"I could have been a judge, but I didn't have the Latin"

Well, those judging exams were rigorous. Noted for their rigour, I believe.

[Sceptic]

With regard to the Dunning-a little knowledge is dangerous-Kruger Effect ...I would also like to know if Orbs are seen by intelligent people? Also ...how many mediums need Satnavs to get to the benefits office from their parents semi?

Cardinal Sceptic (Eng).

[Cuddles]

Orbs are seen by everyone, regardless of intelligence. Just blow some dust into the air and take a photo using the flash. Instant orbs.