The Expert Trap: Why Smart People Make Terrible Decisions

Why do the most intelligent people sometimes make the worst mistakes? This video explores "The Expert Trap," a dangerous cognitive bias where the very things that make someone successful—their knowledge, confidence, and past successes—become a cage that blinds them to new realities. We examine how earned dogmatism and complexity can shield brilliant minds from simple truths.

This is not an attack on experts. It is a deep look into the psychology of decision-making and a guide to the mental models you can use to improve your own critical thinking. Learn about the tools that can help you escape the trap of your own certainty and make better decisions.

00:00 - The Brilliant Mistake
01:51 - Naming the Trap
04:11 - The First Pillar: Earned Dogmatism
06:33 - The Second Pillar: Complexity as a Shield
10:07 - The Social Engine: Why We Follow
12:41 - The Way Out: Building an Escape Route
15:17 - The Final Warning

Disclaimer:
This video is intended for analytical and educational purposes. It explores the concept of "The Expert Trap" using frameworks from psychology and decision-making science. The goal is to examine behavioral patterns and cognitive risks — not to accuse, label, or target any specific individual or group.

The content draws from publicly known psychological theories, historical events, and established concepts of cognitive bias. All referenced ideas are used to encourage critical thinking and self-awareness.

Any real-world examples, such as the stories of the Titanic or Kodak, are used strictly for illustration of the psychological concepts. They do not refer to, nor are they intended to resemble, any living person. No defamation or personal commentary is intended or implied.