Chris Hedges argues that "the rule of idiots" signifies the final stage of collapsing empires, where a society's "collective stupidity" and "loss of reality" lead to its downfall. Drawing parallels between historical empires like Rome and contemporary America, Hedges contends that leaders like Donald Trump embody this idiocy, mirroring societal pathologies rather than creating them. These "idiots" prioritize "spectacle" and self-enrichment, destroying institutions and rational discourse while neglecting critical issues like the climate crisis or economic inequality. Ultimately, Hedges suggests that this decay stems from a public conditioned to embrace "collective thoughtlessness" and a ruling class that has inverted moral norms, prioritizing self-interest over the common good and transforming democratic institutions into tools of exploitation.

The source explores the surprising phenomenon of "stupid people becoming successful," challenging the common belief that success inherently equates to high intelligence. It delves into the Dunning-Kruger effect, explaining how overconfidence in those with limited knowledge can propel them forward, while highly competent individuals may be hampered by self-doubt. The text argues that confidence often triumphs over competence in a society that rewards bravado and salesmanship, particularly within a capitalist framework that favors "doers over thinkers" and can incentivize a lack of empathy. Finally, the source highlights nepotism and inherited wealth as significant, non-intellectual factors contributing to success, asserting that starting with a "massive leg up" often outweighs natural talent or intelligence.

In a time of cruelty, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pastor, spoke out against the atrocities. He came to believe that the root of the problem was not evil, but stupidity.

Bonhoeffer argued that stupidity is a more dangerous enemy of good than malice because reasoning with a stupid person is ineffective. Stupid people are easily satisfied with their own beliefs and become defensive when presented with contradictory facts.

Bonhoeffer believed that stupidity is not a result of low intelligence, but rather a moral failing. People become stupid by allowing themselves to be influenced by others and giving up their independence.

According to Bonhoeffer, stupidity is a sociological problem that is spread by powerful figures. Power seems to require stupidity in others in order to function.

The only way to overcome stupidity is through liberation, both internal and external. Until someone is free, attempts to convince them are likely to fail.

Reflecting on the rise of Nazism in Germany, Dietrich Bonhoeffer concluded that stupidity, rather than malice, was the more dangerous force. He argued that stupidity is not a lack of intellect but a moral failing often amplified by group dynamics and the influence of power structures, rendering individuals susceptible to manipulation and unable to recognize evil. Because reasoned arguments are ineffective against those who are willingly blind, Bonhoeffer believed that only an act of liberation, often external, could free individuals from this state.