IGNORANCE IS NOT BLISS

Ignorance refers to the incomprehension and incognizance of information or knowledge about a particular or general subject. It can be seen as either the lack of awareness in carrying out specific tasks, the unfamiliarity with specific objects/tools, or the comprehension of facts. It can also be seen as the intentional refusal to acquire knowledge. An ignorant person can be called uneducated, crude or foolish and may exhibit specific characteristics that depict the individual as cognitively unaware of some information.

Characteristics of Ignorant People

1. They can be egoistic and overbearing: most ignorant people consider themselves as all-knowing. They can be arrogant, talk a lot about their ego, and do not like to be called ignorant. They often talk a lot and never listen to the opinions of others.

2. They are very defensive: these kinds of people are repulsive when questioned. They guard their opinions preciously and are not open to changing their beliefs.

3. They often try to impose their beliefs on others: most people who exhibit ignorant behavior believe that they are unquestionably right at all times. Thus, they disregard every other opinion and seek to transfer their beliefs to others to maintain superiority.

4. They base their knowledge on other entities: ignorant individuals often link nationalities, religions, and ideologies to the basis of their beliefs; hence their ideas are always undisputable.

5. They may exhibit a lack of knowledge in many areas of life

6. They are not ready or willing to learn

7. They are characterized by impolite behavior

Understanding the phrase 'Ignorance is not bliss.'

Sometimes, individuals consciously dwell in the unawareness of the truth to avoid guilt. This is what 'Ignorance is Bliss' refers to. An example of statements indicating Ignorance is Bliss is choosing to stay unaware of the number of calories present in a cake to enjoy the cake and remain Ignorant to the unhealthiness too many calories can cause. If you're not aware of it you don’t have to worry about it. 

How does ignorance hinder your growth and development as a person? 

Growth and ignorance are two contradicting terms. An Ignorant person is characterized by the absence of growth, whereas a growing person is not ignorant. However, people who dwell in ignorance often experience a lack of growth in areas such as;

In personal growth, an ignorant individual finds it difficult to express themselves and may remain withdrawn. They may also feel cheated by the educated personnel. This can affect their self-esteem and how to react to societal issues. Also, their lack of primary education may hinder them from taking certain leadership positions in society.

In career growth, ignorant people may find it challenging to excel in business ventures. They may constantly end up being cheated as they may not understand the secrets of business deals.

In societal growth, ignorance plays a crucial role in diminishing relationships due to the lack of knowledge to progress.

How to stop being ignorant

• mAcknowledge your ignorance and educate yourself

• Be curious; ask questions and seek answers

• Collaborate with others

• Look for alternative opinions

• Avoid subjecting all events to bias judgement

Ignorance is not blissful. Ignorance is the lack of sufficient information, which is detrimental to human activities. Not only is ignorance depriving, but also dangerous to ensuring the growth of the individual and society.