::::::::
This being one of my fields of expertise, I thought I'd share the secrets of my success:1. Tell the truth.
People don't like the truth. The truth makes people uncomfortable. People prefer to feel good and lies reassure them that everything is just fine and that there's nothing to worry about. Some truths that are guaranteed to anger people are that 9/11 was an inside job, that our elections are rigged, and that if they had half a brain they'd already know that.
2. Don't suffer fools gladly.
When somebody says something that is ignorant, stupid, or hypocritical, explain exactly why what they said is ignorant, stupid, or hypocritical. Fools love to make fools of themselves, but they hate it when anyone points out how foolish they are.
3. Resist temptation.
Don't let anyone buy you a drink, flatter you, or offer to introduce you to their very important friends. The reason they're so popular and important is because they tell lies and suffer fools gladly.
4. Ignore wannabes.
The world is full of wannabes, and what they wannabe is just like everyone else. Tell them to go clone themselves.
5. Do your own research and draw your own conclusions.
That will counter the conventional wisdom and anger all the disinformation agents spreading lies. They'll attack you, and then everyone who can't think for themselves will follow their lead and reject you.
Strangely enough, the more false friends and stupid people you alienate by following these simple principles, the more intelligent and worthwhile friends you'll make. Instead of ending up lonely and bitter, you'll find yourself surrounded with brilliant minds in a circle of mutual respect. The reason that bulge in the middle of the bell curve is so swollen is because that's where all the popular people are. If mediocrity is your goal, then you'll be happy there, and you won't understand why anyone would write an article like this.
It certainly isn't going to make me popular! ;)
