Psychology
Why Do We Overestimate Our Abilities? The Dunning-Kruger Effect Explained
Quick fact
The Dunning-Kruger effect was demonstrated by David Dunning and Justin Kruger in 1999. People in the bottom quartile of a skill test rated themselves above average—some even thought they were in the top third.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever been absolutely sure you aced a test, only to get a C? Or watched a novice confidently explain something they know nothing about? Why do the least competent people seem the most confident?