Cartoonist Scott Adams, creator of the widely syndicated "Dilbert" comic strip, has publicly articulated a profound distrust in traditional authority, stating that "Experts are usually paid liars" and that "non-experts can sometimes be excellent bullshit detectors." This assertion comes as Adams continues to navigate the fallout from widespread cancellations of his comic strip and publishing deals following controversial remarks made earlier this year.
Adams' recent comments, shared on social media, reflect a deepening skepticism towards established narratives and those who propagate them. The cartoonist's public profile has been largely defined by a February 2023 YouTube livestream where he referred to Black Americans as a "hate group" and advised white people to "get the hell away" from them, citing a Rasmussen Reports poll. These statements led to hundreds of newspapers, his syndicate, and his book publisher severing ties with him.
The widespread backlash resulted in a significant loss of income for Adams, who acknowledged the "train wreck" of his career and stated that "most of my income will be gone by next week." Despite the severe professional consequences, Adams has maintained that his controversial remarks were hyperbole intended to make a point, and he has criticized media outlets for what he perceives as misrepresentation and a lack of context.
His current stance, emphasizing the unreliability of "experts," appears to be a direct response to how his own public statements were received and framed by mainstream media and critics. Adams seemingly positions himself and those who align with his views as "non-experts" capable of discerning truth amidst what he terms "fake news," contrasting them with "paid liars" in positions of authority.
The cartoonist has a history of making provocative statements and has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, often engaging in public discourse that challenges conventional wisdom. This ongoing commentary from Adams highlights a broader societal trend of increasing distrust in institutions and a growing divide over the sources of credible information.