Hanlon’s Razor
Hanlon's Razor is a philosophical principle that states: “Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.”
It suggests that when something goes wrong or someone does something harmful, it's more likely due to incompetence, ignorance, or error rather than intentional malice.
Plausible Incompetency
The malevolent do not push back on being called an idiot or stupid, because they’re smart enough to know that label masks their true intentions and use plausible incompetency as cover.
Unconspire’s Razor
Oddly, there is no formal inverse for Hanlon’s Razor, so here is a counter principal:
Never attribute to stupidity that which is adequately explained by malice.
Application: Unconspire’s Razor would encourage you to first consider if someone’s actions stem from deliberate malice (e.g., sabotage, deception) before chalking it up to ignorance or mistake.
Strengths: It fosters vigilance and could protect against being blindsided by hidden agendas. In scenarios where malice is common (e.g., political agendas), it might be more practical than Hanlon’s charitable stance.
Risks: Overapplying Unconspire’s Razor could lead to paranoia, strained relationships, or misjudging honest mistakes as attacks. It’s less forgiving and might complicate situations where simpler explanations (like human error) are actually correct. But in political realms, it ought to be the first to consider.
Stop Calling Them Idiots
Stop calling them idiots, open your eyes,
It’s not just mistakes; it’s a plan in disguise.
They’re not just fumbling, they’re not just lost,
It’s calculated, and we pay the cost.
When you say “stupid,” you let them go,
The truth is sharper than you know.
They want you to think it’s all a mistake,
A comedy of errors in the choices they make.
But look at the system, the cracks and the seams,
It’s more than chaos, it’s engineered schemes.
Don’t be fooled by the veil of clowns,
The masterminds wear hidden crowns.
The truth’s in front, don’t look away,
Malice leads their masquerade.