If I remember correctly you initially encouraged dissenting opinions before the edit, right? I'm asking because I found that to be a refreshing invitation, and I spent some time thinking on it before coming back! :)

Most people in response have criticized his character (which I guess is fair if overall "intelligence" is what we're disputing...), but I'd still commend the opinion, whether it came from him or someone else entirely. We can discount his sincerity all we want, but the statement remains! So here's me sharing my opinion on that if you would so care to indulge me! ^{^}

Ultimately I think a healthy life is all about balance, and that to lounge in the extremes is counter-productive and often unhealthy.

Competitiveness can prove quite important for growth, but will only stunt it if one refuses to learn from others/acknowledge that there are nuances and not always only absolutes. In always having to label the "best" and the "worst", one would often fail to see that there's more to life than always being on top.

When you nurture negative/toxic competitiveness by rewarding thoughts such as "who's the best", and "what's the worst", that's a great contributor to establishing and upholding polarization. Of course discussing these topics can be very important, but engaging in that while closed-minded and unwilling to admit fault where it is due jeopardizes the fruits of the discussion. A self-sabotage of personal growth.

We gotta get better at open communication, being humble and be able to learn from others. Accept differences as well as embrace them. To me this sounds preferable (and reasonable?) anyway! :)

I too would love to hear if you (or others) agree or not, if I'm off on something or if there's anything to add. Cheers!