pseudo-intellectual

Someone who pursues knowledge in a variety of categories for purely social reasons and tends to have only a basic understanding of many concepts. The pseudo-intellectual doesn't seek knowledge for the purpose of better understanding the world, but rather to enhance their image. They also prefer to interpret concepts in a way that allows them to use their knowledge as a weapon in social scenarios. They'll use the misinterpretation of facts to appear objective and correct, and thus unaccountable, when "talking shit" on another person. The pseudo-intellectual will challenge opinions or views as a way of making a personal attack. They then usually assume an imagined victory and will feel that the one they've attacked has been "put in their place". Pseudo-intellectuals are very catty and have a strong desire to socially dominate others. Pseudo-intellectuals are quick to judge others and are usually very sure of their superiority based on their ability to use knowledge as social ammo. They'll use any means available to prove themselves "correct" and tend to believe that being correct gives them a blank check for any social pursuits, including ones that are undertaken purely for self gratification. Given their usual motivation to either impress or dominate their peers, the Pseudo-intellectual is completely uninterested in any knowledge that they can't use in this capacity.