Fairly often, I get the impression that when people speak or write about others being ignorant what they really mean to say is that that individual or group is stupid. Even though it is quite possible that someone who is ignorant may also be stupid, it is still not a synonym.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary:
ignorance \ig-n(-)rn(t)s\
noun (13th century) : the state or fact of being ignorant : lack of knowledge, education, or awareness.
So why is the distinction important? To some degree we are all ignorant about something at some point. The important thing is to be able to acknowledge it and if the topic is of any importance we should seek to mitigate or outright eliminate our ignorance. If an individual is unable or unwilling to do so then perhaps they really are stupid. Personally, I prefer dealing with ignorance. If it is a matter of ignorance then there is a chance that a healthy dose of knowledge may turn an individual or group who would otherwise oppose or hinder you into an ally. Ignorance is a matter of the individual's level of awareness and information on a given topic or set of topics so it is not a question of comprehension.
I also think it is important for the sake of intelligent discussion and debate. There is really no point in engaging an idiot. Nothing can be gained by either side. However, if you end up in a heated argument with someone who may be ignorant and intelligent there are any number positive outcomes. Win or lose, both parties can gain further insight into the topic of discussion. It is also possible to soften the other sides views even if they cannot be outright changed.
Essentially, ignorance is an obstacle but not a dead end. Ignorance can be alleviated or ended. Unfortunately, genuine stupidity is more of a road block than an obstacle.
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