7 Unconventional Expert Opinions I Embrace (That Defy Common Beliefs)

**Title: Widely Accepted Ideas That Challenge Common Beliefs**

**1. The Efficiency of Markets**
Most Investors Can’t Beat the Market

The concept of market efficiency suggests that the price of widely-traded securities reflects all available information about them. This means that investors cannot consistently outperform the market by identifying “deals” or “overpriced” assets. Trying to beat the market actually makes it harder to do so, as the very action of investors attempting to exploit mispricings causes the asset’s price to adjust, moving it closer to its true value. Therefore, it is generally advised for retail investors to invest in broad-based index funds to achieve diversification and earn the average market return with minimal fees.

**2. Intelligence Is Largely Heritable and Not Easily Changeable**
Intellectual Ability Is a Key Factor in Success

Contrary to the belief that intelligence can easily be improved through self-cultivation and hard work, scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that intelligence is a valid psychometric measurement that is largely heritable. Intelligence, as measured by IQ tests, correlates positively with factors such as happiness, income, and longevity. While there are few interventions that reliably improve IQ, gaining knowledge and skills can enhance one’s ability to perform various tasks. Although general intelligence may not be easily changeable, acquiring specific knowledge and skills remains crucial for personal growth and success.

**3. Learning Styles are a Myth**
Individual Learning Preferences Have No Impact

Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific evidence to support the notion of distinct learning styles, such as being a “visual,” “auditory,” or “kinesthetic” learner. Studies conducted to test the theory of learning styles have consistently failed to find performance enhancements based on matching teaching methods with individuals’ supposed learning styles. People’s preference for certain sensory modalities, like visualizing or listening, does not indicate that teaching methods tailored to those preferences would result in better learning outcomes.

**4. Physics Explains the World Around Us**
Quantum Mechanics and the Standard Model Provide Explanations

Renowned physicist Sean Carroll asserts that the world around us is entirely explained by the principles of physics, particularly quantum mechanics and the Standard Model. Despite ongoing debates within the field of physics, such as string theory and supersymmetry, such controversies are primarily theoretical discussions relevant only at extremely high energies. For everyday life at room temperature, the knowledge provided by the existing physics framework allows scientists to make remarkable predictions, covering phenomena ranging from democratic governance to the beauty of sunsets.

**5. Overweight Individuals Eat Too Much**
The Difficulty of Breaking the Cycle

Although the concept may seem obvious, the idea that overweight individuals are in their condition due to excessive calorie intake is often contradicted or undermined by various opinions online. The calorie-in, calorie-out model corresponds to the laws of thermodynamics, indicating that a reduction in calorie consumption leads to weight loss. However, neuroscientists and obesity researchers explain that the brain has intrinsic neural circuitry designed to avoid starvation, promoting hunger when significant weight loss occurs. Despite the challenge of weight loss, new approaches, such as weight-loss drugs, offer hope in combating this problem by addressing the complexities of obesity.

**6. Language Acquisition: Children vs. Adults**
Adults Possess Advantages in Rapid Proficiency

While it is commonly believed that children learn languages faster than adults, research suggests that adults actually tend to become proficient more quickly than children when exposed to the same instructional methods or immersion. Although children may ultimately surpass adults in pronunciation and syntax, this does not imply faster learning overall. The learning process involves both a fast, explicit channel and a slow, implicit channel. Older individuals may have a more developed fast channel but may lack in the slow channel, which limits their attainment of native-like proficiency. Early language learning benefits from extensive immersive exposure, while adults can achieve proficiency with continued practice.

**7. Our Generation is Better Off Than Our Grandparents’**
Economic Progress Over Generations

Contrary to common pessimism, the current generation is significantly better off economically than previous generations. Despite the rising costs of houses and college degrees, various indicators highlight the improvements in quality of life over time. It is important to recognize the advancements made in terms of technological innovation, access to education, and overall prosperity. While there are challenges in the present, it is essential to acknowledge the progress achieved and consider the opportunities available as a result of economic development.

Overall, challenging popular beliefs with evidence-supported ideas can lead to a better understanding of complex topics. Embracing expert consensus and critically evaluating preconceived notions fosters intellectual growth and helps individuals navigate the world more effectively.