In Praise of Stupid Questions

There are no stupid questions, We Promise. Please ask when you feel like you are stuck in the dark.

We have all heard it said “There are no stupid questions.” The Antediluvian Librarians strongly endorse the sentiment behind that statement. While there may be questions phrased in ways that are less elegant than they might be—thereby coming close to the category of stupid—the curiosity and need that prompts them is never stupid. To put it more specifically, as astrophysicist Carl Sagan said, “There are naive questions, tedious questions, ill-phrased questions, questions put after inadequate self-criticism. But every question is a cry to understand the world. There is no such thing as a dumb question.”

Questions are the lifeblood of academic life. They indicate peoples’ curiosity, analytical abilities, and desire to learn. Asking questions is hard, but well worth it in the end. No one knows that better than those who teach because they have to ask hundreds of questions to help their students learn. Questions open doors to understanding. A seemingly naïve question can cast new light on old assumptions. Further, if you have questions, it’s a sure bet that your classmates do too. They just may be afraid to speak up. Remember the emperor and his new clothes?

So ask questions—lots and lots of questions.

Even if you worry the answer may be obvious.

Even if you fear they are unsophisticated.

Even if you aren’t sure about the vocabulary.

Even if you suspect your professor will become impatient. Even if you think your fellow students may laugh.

Even if . . .

Even.