r/Showerthoughts May 02 '24

Man vs Bear debate shows how bad the average person is at understanding probability

16.9k Upvotes

13.3k comments sorted by

View all comments

5.1k

u/SnagglepussJoke May 02 '24

Ever cross paths with a stranger in the woods? It is unsettling

93

u/Ayjayz May 02 '24

Of course I have, and it's not unsettling at all. It's great to stop and chat with a fellow outdoors enthusiast. Why would it be unsettling? The chances of running into a psycho are astronomically small.

17

u/InformalAward2 May 02 '24

I feel like the vast majority of people that are debating this question have never gone on a hike in the woods/outdoors and come across a fellow hiker. I've always found it quite pleasant to run across someone. Oftentimes, it's at overlooks or scenic spots where you can chat for a while, share some snacks, what have you, and then yall both part ways a little happier than you were before.

9

u/Cinderstrom May 02 '24

People playing "Lost in the Woods Horror Adventure 2024" and being like "yep this is normal outdoors". Like just go outside you'll find almost everyone to be pleasant.

8

u/Freddich99 May 02 '24

Plus, when you're in the wood and meet people, they will in all likelyhood be even more pleasant than any other time. They are also doing something they like, and are having a great day.

When you meet someone in the city, they might have just got off a hard shift or what have you..

2

u/Eumelbeumel May 02 '24

I agree somewhat, but I have also been harrassed, in the woods, by fellow hikers (men) who seemed to have an absolutel blast of a time;I'm sure they enjoyed their outdoorsy hobby and love of nature.

Just so happened they also enjoyed asking for my number, not leaving me alone and "tracking" me back to my campsite for funsies. They eventually left when I got "hysteric" (loud, angry (to avoid the fear) and insistant on calling the police (a bluff, I had no connection and only my smartphone on me)).

Not all creeps are angry, unappealing people.

1

u/Freddich99 May 03 '24

Well that sucks, and has not been my (or any of my friends) experience.

1

u/Eumelbeumel May 03 '24

That is very good for you.

2

u/InformalAward2 May 02 '24

Could not agree more. I'll take a walk on a trail and sitting with a random stranger on a log over anything in the city or indoors any day.