Those Who Know The Least Obey The Best - The Paradox of Knowledge and Obedience

Have you ever noticed that sometimes it's the people who seem to know the least who obey the best? It's a curious paradox that often goes unnoticed, but once you start paying attention, it becomes clear that there is indeed a correlation between knowledge and obedience. In this article, we will dive deeper into this paradox and explore the underlying factors that contribute to it.

The False Dilemma of Knowledge vs. Obedience

At first glance, knowledge and obedience may appear to be contradictory concepts. After all, isn't knowledge supposed to empower individuals to think critically, question authority, and make informed decisions? On the other hand, obedience seems to suggest blindly following orders without questioning their validity. However, reality is rarely so simplistic, and the relationship between knowledge and obedience is far more nuanced.

While knowledge can be a powerful tool for liberation and personal growth, it can also lead to a sense of intellectual superiority and arrogance. Those who possess extensive knowledge in a particular field might develop a strong conviction in their own ideas, which can blind them to alternative perspectives and diminish their willingness to listen to others. In contrast, those with less knowledge may be more open-minded and receptive to external influence, making them more likely to obey authority figures.

The Inconstant: "Those who know the least obey the best."

by George Farquhar (Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	176 KB
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Print length	:	148 pages

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Furthermore, obedience itself is often driven by a deep-rooted need for acceptance and conformity. Humans are social creatures who thrive on belonging to communities, and obedience is a crucial element in maintaining social cohesion. Those who feel less knowledgeable might be more eager to conform to societal norms and expectations in order to gain acceptance from their peers.

The Paradox of Ignorance and Obedience

In some cases, ignorance can be a contributing factor to obedience. When individuals lack information or have a limited understanding of a particular subject, they are more likely to rely on external sources of authority for guidance. This reliance on authority figures can result in blind obedience as individuals trust that those in power must possess the knowledge and wisdom needed to make informed decisions on their behalf.

This paradox is often exploited by governments, institutions, and other authority figures as a means of control. By deliberately withholding or manipulating information, those in power can cultivate a culture of ignorance, making it easier to manipulate and control the masses. As the saying goes, "Ignorance is bliss," and when people are unaware of the extent of their own ignorance, they are more susceptible to obedience.

Psychological Factors at Play

Several psychological factors contribute to the correlation between knowing less and obeying more. One such factor is the phenomenon known as the Dunning-Kruger effect. This effect explains that individuals with low ability in a certain domain often overestimate their competence, while those with high ability underestimate it. In other words, those who know the least may perceive themselves as experts, leading them to be more resistant to authority and less likely to obey instructions.

Additionally, a fear of punishment or negative consequences can drive individuals to comply with authority. People who lack knowledge might be more fearful of potential repercussions and thus be more obedient to avoid punishment. On the other hand, those with more knowledge might possess a degree of confidence in their abilities and be less threatened by potential consequences, leading to a reduced tendency to obey blindly.

Breaking the Paradox - Balancing Knowledge and Obedience

While there is a clear correlation between knowing the least and obeying the best, it is essential to find a balance between knowledge and obedience. Blind obedience can be dangerous and lead to the perpetuation of harmful ideologies, while excessive skepticism and refusal to follow instructions can hinder progress and cooperation.

The key lies in fostering a culture of critical thinking and questioning, even among those with extensive knowledge. Encouraging individuals to challenge authority and express their viewpoints can lead to a more inclusive and progressive society. At the same time, it is crucial to promote empathy and understanding towards those who might have less knowledge, ensuring that their voices are heard and their opinions are valued.

In , the paradox of those who know the least obeying the best is a complex interplay between knowledge, obedience, ignorance, and psychological factors. Understanding this paradox can shed light on the intricate dynamics that shape human behavior. By striking a balance between knowledge and obedience, we can create a society that embraces critical thinking, values diverse perspectives, and fosters growth and progress for all.

The Inconstant: "Those who know the least obey the best."

by George Farquhar (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	176 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	148 pages

FREE

George Farquhar was born in Derry, Ireland in 1677, one of seven children. Farquhar was educated at Foyle College and later, aged 17, he entered Trinity College, Dublin. He departed after only two years, accounts vary as to why, and he took to acting on the Dublin stage. As an actor he seems to have had no real talent. A terrible accident, when he failed to distinguish between a tipped foil and a deadly rapier, and seriously wounded a fellow actor, resolved Farquhar to give up acting for good. His first play, Love and a Bottle, was well received at London’s Drury Lane Theatre in 1699 and was admired "for its sprightly Dialogue and busy Scenes." With the play a success Farquhar settled his talents on a career as a playwright. He had a second play open that same year; The Constant Couple. Again, it was warmly received on debuting at Drury Lane and proved a great success. However, another interest and opportunity now unfolded into his life. He received a commission in the regiment of the Earl of Orrery. His time now became divided between the duties of a successful new playwright and the vocations of soldier. In 1701 Farquhar wrote and debuted a sequel to the Constant Couple, called and based on its main character; Sir Harry Wildair. The following year was to be prolific for the young playwright. He penned both The Inconstant or, The Way To Win and The Twin-Rivals as well as publishing Love and Business, a collection that included letters, verse, and A Discourse Upon Comedy. His work for the army, recruiting soldiers to fight in the War of the Spanish Succession, occupied much of his time for the next three years, and he was to write little except The Stage Coach, in 1774. Farquhar was able, however, to draw upon these years of recruiting experience for his next comedy, The Recruiting Officer in 1706. Early in 1707, Farquhar wrote what was to be his masterpiece: The Beaux Stratagem. In these last two plays his real contribution to the English drama is all the more apparent. He introduced a verbal vigour and sparring, as well as a love of character that are more usually associated with Elizabethan dramatists and laid much of the foundations for Sheridan and Congreve to build upon. George Farquhar, aged only 40, died on April 29th, 1707, almost two months after the debut of his greatest work. He was buried in the Church of St. Martin in the Fields, London, on May 3rd, 1707.