Is stupidity/intelligence contagious?

[Mark2010]

If you work around stupid people all the time, does it increase the chances that you also will become stupid?

If you hang around smart people all the time, does it increase the chances you will become smarter?

 

[catofhope]

I won't touch the stupid question.

But I certainly do believe interacting with other smart people does make a person more intelligent sounding.
Maybe you pick your words more carefully being sure to use better vocubulary.
And if you are going to be with those people a lot maybe you do listen more to the news to talk more intelligently about daily events.
So by wanting to fit in better you do take measures to be smarter (in a way).

Sadly it is all about fitting in.
I am not sure if it is still this way but...
Many teen girls prefer to "act dumb" to be liked.
So I do suppose if you hang around with stupid people...
you would indeed act more stupid which in turn could mean you are.

 

[Tumbleweed64]

I would not think so...

 

[Tychicus2]

According to the Word...

Prov 13:20
20 He who walks with wise men will be wise,
But the companion of fools will suffer harm.
NASU


My .02

Ty

 

[CCe]

According to the Word...

Prov 13:20
20 He who walks with wise men will be wise,
But the companion of fools will suffer harm.
NASU


My .02

Ty

I think you deserve more than two cents for that answer! Proverbs has some very good advice, if we would just take it!

 

[NorwayUnn]

Don't we all act stupid (unfortunately) and wise (hopefully) at times (no matter how ''blond'' you are or not)? I don't think some people are ONLY stupid or ONLY wise, but some are more careful, reflective and considerate than others.

My answer is probably not worth even 2 cents though.

 

[Mark2010]

Sure it is. Pretty smart answers. It seems we do tend to immitate those who we spend a great deal of time around, whether we are conciously trying to fit in, gain approval, or whatever.

Reminds me of the saying "It's hard to soar with the eagles when you are surrounded by turkeys."