In her book "My Year of Meats," Ruth Ozeki explores the concept of ignorance as a deliberate choice. Ignorance isn't merely a lack of knowledge; it reflects a conscious decision made repeatedly, particularly in the face of overwhelming information. When confronted with the vast complexities of knowledge, some may find themselves paralyzed or unable to act, leading them to ignore necessary truths.

This insight emphasizes that the act of ignoring information can often stem from a perceived inability to utilize that knowledge effectively. Rather than empowering individuals, knowledge can sometimes lead to a sense of impotence, where the burden of understanding feels too heavy to bear. By framing ignorance in this way, Ozeki encourages readers to reflect on their relationship with knowledge and the choices they make regarding what to acknowledge or overlook.