Have you ever seen something someone has posted online and just cringed at how absolutely ridiculous they sound? And they are so determined to be right that they kind of make a fool of themselves?
This, my friends, is what we like to call ignorance. And unfortunately, in this day and age, there are a lot more ignorant people than not. Especially places like the Internet, where they can hide behind a screen and talk as much poo as they want. On places like Facebook and Twitter, you’re always seeing completely dumb things like someone having an opinion about nonsense things.
For example, do we all recall when Starbucks changed their cups for the holidays and the entire Internet blew up? Or when Kim Kardashian-West posted a “naked” selfie and everyone freaked out? (I put naked in quotations because technically, her goodies were covered). People have a tendency to post their unwanted opinions and then get offended when you want to post something saying how ignorant they sound. It's all a vicious cycle.
With that being said, I've compiled a list of how to deal with ignorant people both on the Internet and in real life.
1. Ignore them.
This may or may not be the best solution. However, one way to deal with those annoying people is to just not give their comments any time. These kind of people thrive when you respond, because that’s what they want: attention. So just don’t respond.
2. Vent to a friend.
One of the most effective ways to not let annoying or ignorant people get to you is to talk to a close friend instead of responding to it. You still get out your thoughts and anger, but not by giving the person attention.
3. Kill them with kindness.
OK, I know you read that and you started to cringe at the thought. However, ignorant people aren't always bad people. They're just not well informed. They don’t know any better.
So be kind to them. They can’t help their situation. It’s not their fault they have trouble keeping informed. Give them a hand and bring them up to speed on the situation. If you're kind to them, it will be amazing how this might change their attitude toward you and the topic they’re speaking about.
4. Pity them.
Clearly if this person is being so unreasonable and bitter, that means something is happening to them that is making them like this. And you should feel sorry for them, because you’re clearly superior in thinking since they can’t see all the facts in a situation.
5. Fight back.
Now, I put this one last, because this should be your last choice. The one thing you have to remember about ignorant people is that they're so set in their ways, this is almost a lost cause. But if you feel so strongly about something and you know they’re wrong, beat them at their own game. But be smart the way you say things so you don’t come off as equally ignorant.
