by Leanne Coffman

Created on: October 10, 2009   Last Updated: October 23, 2009

Foolish behavior isn't difficult to define, though it comes in a myriad of styles, shapes, and actions. We all recognize less-than wise individuals when they continue on a path of illogical, hurtful behavior. From small offenses, such as constant tardiness that eventually costs a needed job, to large painful displays of foolish behavior that takes lives- fools abound. Understanding why one individual chooses destructive behavior, and another doesn't is far more complex, however.

The Birth of Foolishness:

The saga of wisdom and foolishness in human nature is an age old one. In Biblical times, Cain and Abel, both children of the same parents, (Adam and Eve) were markedly different in their world views. Even after being warned by God to do right, Cain still attacked and killed his brother in a moment of gross foolishness, greed, and bitterness. Perhaps that was the birth of foolishness on earth.

However you view the inception of foolishness, clearly the same trend continues to play out in society today. Even with the best of upbringing, two children from the same household can be as different as night in day in regard to their wisdom factor and life choices.

How is this possible? What causes foolish behavior?

Disregarding Consequences:

Foolishness is defined as folly, having traits of acting stupidly, or rashly. You might call it blind impulsivity or giving into the immediate with no regard for the consequences. Perhaps that is the greatest earmark of a fool- lacking regard for consequences. We see this in those who give into immediate desires, choose to commit adultery and ultimately destroy their family. The seed of that behavior and many other self-destructive patterns is borne of the disregard of the consequences.

Mockery:

In some profound cases of utter foolishness, it's not even disregard, but blatant mockery of the consequences. A fool also mocks (or makes fun of) that which is wise and cautious. Convicted criminals, newly freed from jail, who proceed onto another crime spree, display this trait prominently from our Sunday paper headlines.

Less conspicuous fools, however, pass us every day on the highway, in the form of those who operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These individuals also mock that which is wise, by risking their lives and that of innocent bystanders, when they take the wheel while affected by substances.

Poor Thought Process:

A wise person on the other hand, reflects on the path of choices and consequences. Their behavior

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