@Urban_Hermit @RustyBertrand Yes, I can well imagine that. I have also observed a more serious case from a distance. The full conspiracy program, including demonstrations, money to dubious esotericists and also out the window with strange business ideas. As far as I know, without drugs, but with something that could perhaps be called the dark side of fantasy.

Of course, we also have to realize that we are all stupid at times or to some extent. The question is simply how we deal with it. Ignorance is probably the bigger problem. The case I described had a strong sense of mission and felt empowered to "save" others. Empowerment fantasies.

People also often make decisions emotionally and rationalize afterwards. That can sound incredibly stupid or even brilliant. But at its core, it's still the same. Not recognizing the actual motives.

Examples from recent years:
- "Covid is certainly not dangerous" (Wants to visit family in China)
- "He's not really such a bad guy." (Owns shares)
- ...