The Dunning-Kruger effect is a psychological phenomenon where people with low ability or knowledge in a certain domain overestimate their competence. At the same time, those with higher skill levels often underestimate their relative expertise. This creates a curious imbalance in self-perception, where those who know the least often feel the most confident, while those who know more feel less certain.

This effect was first identified by psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger in 1999 through a series of experiments. Their research showed that individuals who performed poorly on tests of logic, grammar, and humor consistently rated their own performance much higher than it actually was. The reason is simple: lacking knowledge also means lacking the ability to recognize one’s own mistakes.

In contrast, more knowledgeable individuals tend to be more aware of what they do not know. Their awareness of the complexity of a subject makes them more cautious in their self-assessment. This humility is often mistaken for a lack of confidence, when in reality it reflects a more accurate understanding of the subject.

The Dunning-Kruger effect can be seen in many real-world contexts. A beginner in a new hobby may believe they’ve mastered the basics after only a few hours of practice. A person with limited understanding of a complex topic like finance or nutrition may speak with bold certainty, unaware of how much they are missing. Meanwhile, true experts often speak with nuance and reservation, knowing that every answer leads to more questions.

This phenomenon is not a matter of intelligence, but awareness. Everyone is vulnerable to it in areas where they lack exposure or experience. The key to overcoming it lies in continuous learning and humility. The more we study, ask questions, and invite feedback, the clearer it becomes how much more there is to understand.

Recognizing the Dunning-Kruger effect in ourselves is not a sign of weakness. It is a step toward intellectual maturity. By staying curious and open, we learn to align our confidence with reality. And that alignment makes us wiser.