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7 Things High IQ People Avoid Watching, Following & Consuming

7 Things High IQ People Avoid Watching, Following & Consuming

High IQ individuals often exhibit unique consumption habits, avoiding certain media and content that could clutter their intellect or hinder their productivity. The following items explore the types of content they are likely to steer clear of.

1. Reality TV Shows

Reality TV Shows
© IndieWire

Reality TV shows often captivate audiences with their drama and unpredictability, but they can be a drain on mental resources. High IQ individuals might find these shows lacking intellectual stimulation and often filled with contrived scenarios.

The artificial narratives and sensationalized conflicts offer little in terms of genuine insight or knowledge. By avoiding these shows, intellectually curious minds can free up time for more enriching activities.

Did you know? Many reality shows are scripted to some extent, undermining their “real” premise. This is one reason why they may fall short for those seeking authenticity.

2. Sensational News Outlets

Sensational News Outlets
© YourDictionary

Sensational news outlets thrive on exaggeration and fear-mongering, which can skew public perception. High IQ individuals tend to be critical thinkers who prefer unbiased and factual reporting.

They understand that sensationalism in media often leads to misinformation and unnecessary panic, which can clutter their cognitive processing.

By choosing reputable sources, these individuals better maintain a clear and balanced perspective on world events. Fun fact: The term “yellow journalism” originated in the late 19th century to describe this exact style of reporting, characterized by sensationalized news.

3. Celebrity Gossip Columns

Celebrity Gossip Columns
© VICE

Celebrity gossip columns focus on trivial matters that provide little value beyond entertainment. High IQ individuals often find such content distracting and irrelevant to their personal growth.

The obsession with celebrity lives can divert attention from more meaningful pursuits and foster superficial thinking.

By avoiding these columns, one can focus on more substantial issues and personal interests. Interesting tidbit: Gossip magazines have been around since the 1950s, marking a long history of feeding the public’s curiosity about the famous.

4. Social Media Influencers

Social Media Influencers
© Medium

Social media influencers often promote a distorted reality through curated images and sponsored content. High IQ individuals might see through this facade, understanding the potential for such content to affect self-esteem and personal values.

The focus on superficial aspects like appearance and material wealth can be off-putting to those valuing depth and authenticity.

By scrutinizing the intent behind influencer posts, one can avoid being swayed by their often commercialized messages. Did you know? The influencer market has grown exponentially, yet its impact on mental health remains a contentious issue.

5. Pseudoscientific Websites

Pseudoscientific Websites
© Scientific American

Pseudoscientific websites spread misleading or false information under the guise of science. High IQ individuals prioritize evidence-based knowledge and find such sites lacking credibility.

By steering clear of these sources, they ensure their understanding of science remains accurate and informed.

This helps in making decisions based on facts rather than conjecture. Fun fact: Many pseudoscience claims thrive on confirmation bias, where people favor information that confirms their preexisting beliefs.

6. Mindless Viral Challenges

Mindless Viral Challenges
© The Week

Mindless viral challenges can often be entertaining but lack any meaningful purpose. High IQ individuals might avoid these as they prefer engaging in activities that offer cognitive stimulation.

Such challenges can sometimes encourage risky behavior, detracting from personal development and safety.

By opting out of these trends, they focus on pursuits that enrich rather than endanger. Interesting to note: The craze of viral challenges often gains momentum through social networks, illustrating the power of collective behavior.

7. Clickbait Articles

Clickbait Articles
© Rock Content

Clickbait articles use misleading headlines to lure readers, offering little of substance once clicked. High IQ individuals often discern these tactics, knowing that such articles rarely deliver informative content.

The allure of clickbait can clutter one’s mind with trivial information, taking time away from more rewarding reads.

By resisting the click, they focus on material that enlightens and educates. Did you know? The term “clickbait” is a portmanteau of “click” and “bait,” perfectly encapsulating its manipulative nature.