Just like “Eh, ‘di wow!” and “Nosebleed!,” “eh ‘di ikaw na matalino!” is now one of the popular expressions when someone in a conversation sounds intellectual or when somebody raises a mind-boggling idea.

This has become socially acceptable to the Filipino culture today.

But then, do you know that you’re placing the person you are talking to in embarrassment when you do that?

Smart shaming young woman

It can also cause intimidation and withdrawal from a possibly-enriching discussion.

Smart-Shaming or Anti-Intellectual is defined by Merriam-Webster as the opposing or hostile to intellectuals or to an intellectual view or approach.

It is criticizing, demeaning, and insulting an intellectual person. You comment negatively or sarcastically about their achievements or ideas just because they are smarter than you.

Yes, even if you say it’s just a joke.

Here are 3 reasons why you should STOP smart-shaming.

  1. You devalue the person

An article entitled Why Stop Smart-Shaming by Vigor Buddy, says that smart shaming prevents them from pursuing intellectual development and may lead into thinking that what they say does not matter, or worse, they do not matter.

Even if you think it is, it is not just an expression. Your words carry power. Better encourage critical thinking and welcome intellectual thoughts in a conversation.

smart shaming - male on mirror

  1. You disengage yourself from investing in your own personal growth

According to Tomas U. Santos of the Varsitarian, in the article entitled Filipinos and smart-shaming, you should see these kinds of conversations as an opportunity for growth. Instead of bashing, listen and learn from those who give good insights.

Always look ahead. The knowledge and wisdom you can get is something you can use in the future.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions or do your own research.

  1. You hamper critical thinking among the younger generation

“You need to teach children to stay curious and hungry to learn new things because if you keep saying ‘Basta, ang kulit mo ha!’ when they’re asking questions, they will end up discouraged or threatened by knowledge as well,” says Shakira Sison of Rappler in her article What’s up with the smart-shaming?

Smart-shaming leads to mediocrity and ignorance, according to Julia Jasmine Madrazo-Sta. Romana from GMA Network in her article Smart-shaming and our Pinoy culture of anti-intellectualism.

Instead of having intellectual discussions, people would tend to settle with poor ideas. She encourages Filipinos to use the culture of togetherness to build each other up where people thrive to achieve what they have, support them, and start seeing them as an inspiration.It’s time to cultivate and uplift one another. Stop attacking intellectuals to shame, instead, choose life.

Smart Shaming

Hebrews 3:13 (NLT) tells us that “you must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.”

Are you guilty of smart-shaming or are you experiencing it? We would love to talk to you. Call us now at 737-0-777 or text 0999-227-1927. You may also reach us through our iCanBreakThrough Facebook page and Instagram account or you can email us at connect@icanbreakthrough.com.

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