Ghana’s political scene has been marred by corruption, cronyism, and a lack of critical thinking. The recent exposés of corruption within the government have raised questions about the role of stupidity in enabling these malpractices. According to theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, stupidity is a greater threat than evil because it is immune to reason and logic.
A Threat to Democracy
In Ghana, the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic institutions have been accompanied by a decline in critical thinking and an increase in blind loyalty to political figures. This phenomenon has led to a situation where citizens are more likely to repeat slogans and propaganda than engage in nuanced discussions about complex issues.
The Dangers of Blind Conformity
When citizens surrender their ability to think critically and conform to prevailing narratives without question, they become complicit in their own oppression. This is evident in the way some Ghanaians have responded to corruption scandals, often prioritizing party loyalty over accountability and transparency.
Breaking Free from Stupidity
To combat stupidity and promote critical thinking, Ghanaians must be willing to question authority, challenge prevailing narratives, and seek out diverse perspectives. By doing so, they can break free from the cycle of blind conformity and make informed decisions that benefit the country as a whole.
The Choice is Ours
As Bonhoeffer noted, stupidity is a moral and social crisis that requires a commitment to lifelong intellectual and moral independence. Ghanaians must choose to prioritize critical thinking, nuance, and complexity over simplistic explanations and blind loyalty. By staying alert, critical, and free, they can build a more just and equitable society.