Boomers Excel at Weaponized Incompetence

In recent times, the concept of weaponized incompetence has gained traction on TikTok. For those unfamiliar, weaponized incompetence refers to the act of performing a task so poorly or procrastinating for so long that others feel compelled to take over and do it themselves. As Shel Silverstein famously put it, “If you have to dry the dishes and you drop one on the floor/ Maybe they won’t make you dry the dishes anymore.”

When it comes to weaponized incompetence, Boomers seem to be experts. Picture an older man squinting and exclaiming, “I don’t understand all those new terms like ‘BIPOC.’ I’m just an old-fashioned guy, and I’m too set in my ways to learn those fancy new words.” This sort of feigned ignorance allows them to evade social responsibility, claiming, “I’m too old to adapt.” It’s a classic case of weaponized incompetence.

This tactic isn’t new; older generations have relied on it for ages. They argue they can’t unlearn outdated views on race or other social issues, using their age as an excuse to avoid accountability. “Let’s not upset Grandpa,” we often hear. “He’s from a different time.” But unless he’s genuinely senile, he’s using weaponized incompetence to voice whatever he pleases, and we’re letting him.

Boomers and Technology: A Struggle?

Here’s a reality check: technology evolves. Coaxial cables have been replaced by HDMI. If you want to watch your favorite shows, you’ll need to learn how to operate a Roku or navigate streaming services. It’s not a trivia game where you can call a lifeline; it’s a necessity.

Learn to navigate your devices! With tools like Google, which is accessible through both phones and Wi-Fi, any question can be answered. Even instructional YouTube videos exist for virtually everything. If my husband can learn to install a new alternator, you can surely figure out how to reset your Wi-Fi. You’re not too old or incompetent; you just assume we’ll keep handling it if you keep pretending you can’t.

Social Media: A Boomer’s Dilemma

Many Boomers claim they can’t grasp new social media platforms, declaring, “What’s TikTok? What’s a tweet? I’m too old for this.” But the truth is that everyone, regardless of age, can learn to use Twitter or TikTok. It’s not rocket science; it’s merely a matter of willingness to engage.

Your excuses about being “too old” to learn are just that—excuses. Many of us adapted to the digital world, so why can’t you? Don’t hide behind your weaponized incompetence.

Staying Stuck in Stagnant Narratives

Who’s the one who walked miles to school and worked hard for the American Dream? That was the Boomer generation, who often refuse to acknowledge the changing landscape of society. They cling to outdated views, often denying that the world has evolved. When presented with new perspectives, they retreat to their bygone narratives, further solidifying their weaponized incompetence.

Parenting and Weaponized Incompetence

Chances are, your parents might disagree with your parenting choices, hiding behind phrases like, “That’s not how we did it.” They often use their age as an excuse to opt-out of learning modern parenting techniques. Whether it’s understanding new math methods or using baby carriers, they might claim they can’t learn these things. While not all grandparents behave this way, many Boomers have recognized that weaponized incompetence is an effective way to resist change.

Your parents can learn to engage with new ideas and technology. They can use Zoom; they can learn what “BIPOC” means and even use it in conversations. The time has come for Boomers to step up and stop using weaponized incompetence as a shield. If women can call out their partners for shirking household duties, we must also hold Boomers accountable for their refusal to adapt.

This isn’t about aging gracefully; it’s about recognizing that you didn’t just vanish before reaching old age. So, Boomers, it’s time to engage with the world around you.

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In summary, weaponized incompetence is a tactic frequently employed by Boomers to avoid accountability and responsibility in both social and technological realms. It’s essential to recognize and address this behavior in order to foster growth and understanding across generations.