For those who don't know, the Dunning-Kruger effect is based on studies that found that on average, people who fail to meet societal norms (like beauty and intelligence standards) usually overestimate themselves. I would like to challenge that idea, or at least reform it.

Many people relate the Dunning-Kruger effect to low self awareness or low intellect. I have another proposition. The human species has an uncanny ability to lie to themselves when faced with uncomfortable truths. Denial is one of the most dangerous weapons that we turn on ourselves in order to keep internal peace.

This doesn't come from an inability to integrate knowledge. It comes from over-inflated ego and fear. Fear of not living up to the standards of others. Fear of ridicule. Fear of accepting something negative within ourselves.

So if we are to believe that the Dunning-Kruger effect is a result of low intelligence, then the ability to accept truth is an integral part of intelligence. If you cannot accept truth, you are analyzing life through a lense of comfortable lies. If your base for analysis is denial, where is the truth at all?

The issue with denial of beauty standards isn't about accepting that you are ugly. It's about accepting that you do not fit into what society tells you is the best. This does not negate health and wellness factors. But it does show the fragility of our own perception. Is it your own or is it the one society gave to you?

In conclusion, if the Dunning-Kruger effect is truly a result of low intellect, we must include the ability to accept harsh realities as a part of intelligence. This does not mean endorsing them. It means not looking away from the truth when it gets uncomfortable.

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