Stupidity is a word which is generally used to mean low intelligence. However, it has other, more specialized definitions which may be more appropriate to LessWrong's goals:

  • Carlo Maria Cipolla defines stupidity as the tendency to commit acts that damage others while not benefiting, or even harming, oneself.
  • A common definition of stupidity is "doing the same thing over and over again, while expecting different results".
  • According to Robert J. Sternberg, stupidity is widespread in politics, despite the fact that politicians generally have quite high intelligence.

Contrast: winning

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