Figures at the center of a public scandal often find themselves facing the “stupid or evil?” conundrum. A chief executive whose company has dodged paying tax and a celebrity recorded using offensive language might find themselves facing the same choice: Claim ignorance/incompetence (stupid) or admit full responsibility for the nefarious act (evil). Society is generally more forgiving of stupidity than deliberate malice, so most people opt for the former strategy.

But is it always a bluff? Consider Hanlon’s Razor, an aphorism that is generally stated as: “Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.” Its origins are hazy but its meaning clear: Don’t jump to the conclusion that someone’s actions are guided by bad intentions.

Hanlon’s Razor...