Harvard professor and author Steven Pinker writes about language, cognition, and how the mind works. He argues for writing that is clear, direct, and intellectually honest - especially in academic and professional settings. In a recent interview with David Perell, he explores why writing often becomes needlessly complex - and how that complexity can obscure meaning and lose the reader.
One common pitfall in writing is the curse of knowledge - the unconscious tendency to assume others know what you know. When you forget that your readers may not share your background, context, or terminology, your explanations can become confusing, alienating, and difficult to follow. You lose the reader without realising it. The curse of knowledge is a silent killer of clarity and connection, especially in corporate and institutional settings where insider jargon often goes unchecked.
If you’ve ever struggled through academic jargon or business presentations that seem written for insiders, you’ve likely felt its effects.
So how can writers break free of the curse of knowledge, and connect more effectively with their audience?
Watch the full interview for insights and practical tips from one of today’s clearest thinkers - and writers.