RIP Expertise (The Death of Knowledge)

Why We Listen to Influencers, Not Scientists

The world is collapsing under the weight of its own stupidity, and somehow, we’ve all collectively agreed that it’s perfectly fine. No, better than fine — it’s preferable.

If you’ve got a PhD in molecular biology, you’re just some nerd with a clipboard.

But if you’re a TikTok influencer who lip-syncs to outdated pop songs while holding a jar of dubious detox tea? Now you’re a trusted voice in the war against Big Pharma.

This is the era of celebrity expertise. And knowing nothing with confidence beats knowing everything with humility. It’s a game where being loud and sparkly is worth more than being smart, and we’re all playing along like it’s not absolutely deranged.

At some point, we collectively decided that scientists, doctors, and other professionals — people who dedicate their entire lives to understanding complex issues — are just… boring. Their years of rigorous study, clinical trials, and peer-reviewed findings can’t compete with the glitz and glamour of someone famous for pretending to be a lawyer on a prime-time drama.

Maybe it’s because celebrities have better Instagram filters, or maybe it’s because the average person wants their information spoon-fed in bite-sized…