I have wondered if there is just a tolerance people have for feeling dumb. How much can you endure? If you can handle a lot you can continue to learn, doesn't mean you will means you can. If you can't handle a lot you make your life in such a way as you don't have to feel that way. Like someone with a phobia who just always finds ways to not be around it. If I am right conspiracy theories are a coping mechanism to avoid the feeling of inadequacy.

For myself my work is willing to pay for me to go back to school part time and I admit there is a part of me afraid of feeling stupid around all those kids fresh out of high school.