The Natural Science of Stupidity

For the most part, Paul Tabori is content to relate the history of stupidity, piling example upon example. An objective scholar, he points no moral, draws no lesson. Yet, as a sensitive human being, he cannot keep from expressing his shock and dismay. “Stupidity,” he tells us sadly, “is Man’s deadliest weapon, his most devastating epidemic, his costliest luxury.” Does Tabori suggest a sure cure for stupidity? Does he foresee an early end to this blight? He has some ideas, bearing on psychological health, and he has some hope. But he knows the human race too well to promise much. To do more, the evidence of centuries being what it is, would be still another example of stupidity. RICHARD ARMOUR Introduction by Richard Armour.........viii I The Natural Science of Stupidity.....1 II Hard Food for Midas ..................... 16 III After You, Sir ....................................47 IV Up the Family Tree...........................82 V The Stupidity of Red Tape...............100 VI The Law Is an Ass............................125 VII The Stupidity of Doubt..................154 VIII Myth and Wish-Dream..................178 IX Folie Erotique...................................220 X The End of Stupidity........................256 Bibliography..........................................265 Index......................................................269 Stupidity is the world's bane. Emphasizes (among others): greed, doubt, red tape, the law, myth, and wish-dreams. Also includes cupidity and naivete in matters of medical and religious quackery and such subjects as the mass hysteria about the world's end