‘I’d rather not know’: Why we choose ignorance

Published on October 19, 2023

When faced with the opportunity to gain knowledge about the potential consequences of their actions on others, a surprising 40% of individuals opt to remain in the dark. This deliberate choice of ignorance often arises from the desire to maintain a self-centered mindset without feeling burdened by responsibility. It’s like when you have a pile of dirty laundry that you know needs to be washed, but instead you choose to ignore it and pretend it doesn’t exist, indulging in temporary bliss. This phenomenon highlights a fascinating aspect of human behavior – the preference for ignorance over accountability. One might wonder whether this inclination towards ignorance stems from a natural inclination for self-preservation or simply a product of societal conditioning that encourages self-interest above empathy. Regardless, understanding why people choose ignorance offers valuable insights into the complexity of human decision-making. To learn more about this intriguing study and delve further into the psychology behind our propensity for ignorance, explore the underlying research.

When given the choice to learn how their actions will affect someone else, 40% of people will choose ignorance, often in order to have an excuse to act selfishly, according to new research.

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