There’s a stark contrast between engaging in a thought-provoking conversation and one that leaves you questioning the other person’s intelligence.

The difference boils down to the choice of topics. Some conversations can be a clear indicator of a person’s intellectual capacity while others, well, they might just reveal the opposite.

Bringing up certain subjects in a conversation could inadvertently signal that you’re not the sharpest tool in the shed.

And insightful folks know that these topics are often best avoided if you want to keep up the appearance of being well-informed and clever.

If you find someone steering the conversation towards these seven topics, it might just be a sign that they don’t quite measure up in the intelligence department.

And remember, it’s not about being judgemental, but rather about recognizing the signs and adapting our communication accordingly. Let’s dive right into it!

1) Celebrity gossip

We all know that person, the one who can’t get through a conversation without spilling the latest celebrity scandal or discussing in detail the recent Hollywood breakup.

While it can be mildly entertaining at times, a constant focus on celebrity gossip might be a red flag when it comes to intellectual capacity.

Highly intelligent individuals are more likely to engage in discussions about ideas and concepts, rather than focusing on the lives of the rich and famous.

Don’t get me wrong, a little gossip here and there isn’t harmful. But if someone consistently steers the conversation towards who’s dating who in Hollywood, it could be an indication of below-average intelligence.

Keep in mind, this doesn’t mean you should shun anyone who brings up celebrity news. But rather recognize it as a potential sign and adjust your expectations accordingly.

Remember, it’s not about being judgmental, but about understanding and navigating conversations effectively.

2) Conspiracy theories

We’ve all been there. You’re at a social gathering when someone starts talking about how the moon landing was a hoax or how the earth is flat.

I remember once, I was at a dinner party when a friend of a friend started discussing how the Coronavirus pandemic was actually planned.

He was adamant about it, completely disregarding the scientific explanations and factual data that contradicted his theory.

While it can be fun and even fascinating to delve into these alternative hypotheses, an excessive focus on conspiracy theories can indicate a lack of critical thinking.

Intelligent individuals tend to rely more on evidence-based arguments and are less likely to believe in theories that lack scientific backing.

If you find yourself in a conversation about Bigfoot’s existence or alien abductions, take it with a grain of salt and perhaps, reassess the intellectual capacity of your conversation partner.

3) Over-sharing personal details

We all share parts of our personal lives in conversations, it’s part of human nature.

However, there’s something to be said about those who incessantly over-share personal details, especially within moments of meeting someone new.

Research has shown that individuals with higher intelligence tend to be more private and selective about the personal information they share.

They understand the value of privacy and the importance of keeping certain aspects of their life separate from their social interactions.

On the contrary, if someone is frequently sharing intimate details of their life without any discretion, it could be a sign of below-average intelligence.

It’s crucial to remember that quality trumps quantity when it comes to sharing personal information in a conversation.

Next time someone starts telling you about their uncle’s cousin’s dog’s surgery in your first conversation, it might be a good idea to change the topic.

4) Insensitive comments

Another red flag in a conversation is when someone consistently makes insensitive or inappropriate comments.

This goes beyond the occasional tactless joke or poorly timed comment. It’s more about a pattern of disregard for others’ feelings or social norms.

Highly intelligent individuals are usually aware of the impact their words have on others. They understand the importance of empathy and strive to adjust their language and behavior to suit the situation and the people around them.

On the other hand, those with below-average intelligence might struggle with this. They may unintentionally offend others by making inappropriate remarks or by simply failing to consider how their words might be perceived.

If you find yourself cringing at someone’s comments more often than not, it could be an indication of their intellectual capacity. Remember, words matter and can often reveal more about a person than they might think.

5) Complaining constantly

We all have our bad days and it’s okay to vent now and then. But there’s a limit to how much negativity one can tolerate in a conversation.

I recall a past acquaintance of mine who had an uncanny ability to turn any conversation into a monologue of complaints.

Whether it was about the weather, his job, or even the quality of coffee at the local café, he always found something to grumble about.

This constant negativity not only put a damper on our conversations but also reflected poorly on his intelligence.

Research suggests that intelligent individuals are more likely to engage in constructive discussions and problem-solving rather than persistently complaining.

If you find someone constantly griping about this and that, it might be an indication that they lack the intellectual capacity for more positive and productive conversations.

Remember, it’s not just about what we talk about, but how we talk about it.

6) Lack of curiosity

In most conversations, there’s an element of mutual learning. We share, we listen, and we ask questions out of curiosity. But what if someone shows little to no curiosity about your thoughts, experiences, or opinions?

Intelligent individuals tend to be naturally curious. They crave knowledge and are eager to understand different perspectives. They ask questions not just out of courtesy but because they genuinely want to know more.

Conversely, those who show a lack of curiosity and are uninterested in anything beyond their own sphere may be demonstrating below-average intelligence.

If you’re having a one-sided conversation with someone who doesn’t seem interested in your perspective or experiences, it might be a sign they’re not as intelligent as you initially thought.

The art of conversation is not just about speaking, but also about listening with genuine curiosity.

7) Refusal to accept other viewpoints

The most prominent sign of below-average intelligence in a conversation is arguably the refusal to accept or even consider other viewpoints.

Intelligent individuals understand that they don’t know everything. They are open to new ideas, willing to question their beliefs, and able to adjust their views based on new information or perspectives.

However, those with below-average intelligence often cling to their beliefs stubbornly, refusing to entertain the notion that they could be wrong.

This rigidity in thought and lack of open-mindedness is a clear giveaway of their intellectual capacity.

If you find someone completely dismissing your viewpoint without giving it due consideration, it might be a clear sign of their intellectual limitations.

In the end, the true mark of intelligence is not about being always right, but having the humility to accept when you’re wrong.

Final thoughts: Conversation is an art

The beauty of conversation lies in its variety and potential for growth. Every discussion is a new opportunity to learn, understand, and connect on a deeper level.

Yet, it’s important to recognize that not all conversations are created equal. The topics we choose to discuss and the way we engage in dialogue can reveal a lot about our intellectual capacity.

While these seven topics might indicate below-average intelligence, it’s essential to remember that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses.

Intelligence isn’t one-dimensional. It encompasses a wide range of abilities, skills, and traits.

Next time you find yourself in a conversation that’s veering towards these topics, take a moment to observe. Reflect on the dialogue and the person behind it. After all, understanding is the first step towards growth.

In the words of the great philosopher Socrates, “I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think.”

And perhaps that’s the most significant takeaway here – to think, to question, and to grow through our conversations.