Given we have all the information in the world at our fingertips, you’d think people would be less gullible and more educated.
However, that’s sadly not the case. With the internet and social media has come a tsunami of misinformation and actual fake news (no, not Donald Trump’s version of it). Sorry to break it to you, but if you believe any of these things, it’s time for a wake-up call, as you’re being a bit delusional.
1. Success is purely meritocratic.
The idea that hard work alone guarantees success ignores systemic advantages and disadvantages. While effort is crucial, factors like inherited wealth, connections, and societal biases play significant roles. Knowing this doesn’t negate personal responsibility but acknowledges the complex reality of success in today’s world.
2. Technology will solve all our problems.
While technological advancements have improved many aspects of life, they also create new challenges. Over-reliance on tech solutions often overlooks the need for systemic changes and human-centred approaches. Many issues, like climate change or social inequality, require multifaceted solutions beyond what technology alone can provide.
3. The news gives an accurate picture of the world.
The media often focuses on sensational or negative events, skewing our perception of reality. This doesn’t mean all news is fake, but it’s important to understand that news coverage isn’t a representative sample of global events. Seeking diverse sources and understanding media biases is essential for a balanced worldview.
4. Your political party has all the right answers.
Blind allegiance to any political ideology ignores the complexities of governance and policymaking. No single party or perspective has a monopoly on truth or effective solutions. Critical thinking and willingness to consider multiple viewpoints are crucial for informed citizenship.
5. The world is getting worse.
Despite persistent challenges, many global indicators like poverty rates, life expectancy, and education access have improved significantly. This doesn’t mean ignoring current problems, but it’s delusional to overlook substantial progress in numerous areas. A balanced perspective is key to addressing ongoing issues effectively.
6. Conspiracy theories explain major world events.
Complex events rarely have simple, hidden explanations. While questioning official narratives is healthy, believing in elaborate conspiracies often ignores the messy reality of human affairs and institutional incompetence. Critical thinking involves evaluating evidence, not just doubting everything.
7. Your generation had it tougher (or easier).
Each generation faces unique challenges and opportunities. Blanket statements about entire age groups being lazy, entitled, or having it easier/harder oversimplify complex socioeconomic shifts. Intergenerational understanding and cooperation are more productive than competitive suffering narratives.
8. Social media represents real life.
The curated nature of social media often presents an unrealistic view of people’s lives. Comparing your everyday reality to other people’s highlight reels is a recipe for dissatisfaction. Remember, what’s shared online is often a carefully selected, edited version of reality.
9. There’s a quick fix for major societal issues.
Problems like systemic racism, economic inequality, or climate change have deep roots and complex causes. Anyone promising simple, immediate solutions to these issues is likely oversimplifying or being disingenuous. Real change often requires sustained effort, compromise, and multifaceted approaches.
10. Your personal experience represents universal truth.
While personal experiences are valid, they don’t necessarily reflect broader realities. It’s delusional to assume your individual circumstances apply universally. Empathy, research, and openness to diverse perspectives are crucial for understanding issues beyond your immediate experience.
11. The economy works the same way for everyone.
Economic realities vary greatly depending on factors like location, industry, and individual circumstances. Blanket statements about the job market, housing affordability, or economic opportunities often ignore significant disparities. Understanding economic diversity is crucial for informed discussions and policymaking.
12. Education guarantees a good job.
While education is valuable, the direct link between degrees and high-paying jobs has weakened. The job market is evolving rapidly, and many successful careers now require skills not necessarily taught in traditional educational settings. Lifelong learning and adaptability are often more crucial than formal credentials alone.
13. Violence is increasing globally.
Despite media focus on conflicts and crime, global violence has generally decreased over time. This doesn’t mean ignoring current issues, but it’s important to recognise long-term trends. Understanding actual risk levels helps in making informed decisions and avoiding unnecessary fear.
14. Your country is the best (or worst) at everything.
National exceptionalism, whether positive or negative, rarely reflects reality. Every country has strengths and weaknesses. Believing your nation is superior in all aspects or uniquely flawed ignores the complex realities of global comparisons and hinders genuine progress.
15. Science is always 100% certain.
Science is a process of continuous learning and refinement, not a set of unchanging facts. While scientific consensus on many issues is strong, new discoveries can shift understanding. Recognising the evolving nature of scientific knowledge doesn’t undermine its value but reflects its strength as a self-correcting process.
16. Online activism alone creates real-world change.
While social media can raise awareness and mobilise people, lasting change usually requires sustained, real-world action. Believing that likes, shares, or online petitions alone will solve complex issues is often delusional. Effective activism typically combines online and offline efforts.
17. Happiness comes from external achievements.
The belief that reaching certain milestones (career success, wealth, relationship status) will automatically bring lasting happiness often leads to disappointment. While these factors can contribute to well-being, research shows that internal factors like mindset, relationships, and personal growth are more reliable sources of sustained happiness. Recognising this can lead to more fulfilling life choices and priorities.
