The Dunning-Kruger Effect is a cognitive bias in which people with low ability or knowledge in a specific area overestimate their own competence. Essentially, individuals who are less skilled or knowledgeable in a subject tend to have an inflated sense of their ability, while those who are more experienced or knowledgeable may underestimate their own expertise.

This effect occurs because people with limited knowledge or skills in a domain often lack the awareness to recognize their shortcomings. The Dunning-Kruger Effect was identified in 1999 by psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger, who conducted a series of experiments that demonstrated this phenomenon.

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Key aspects of the Dunning-Kruger Effect include:

1. Overestimation of abilities: Less skilled individuals believe they are more competent than they actually are.
2. Lack of awareness of incompetence: The very lack of knowledge prevents them from recognizing their errors or deficiencies.
3. Underestimation of others: Highly skilled individuals may tend to doubt their own competence because they assume tasks are easy for everyone.

In summary, the Dunning-Kruger Effect highlights the paradox that those with the least knowledge in a domain are often the most confident about their skills in it.