> How many of us have raised our hand and asked a "stupid" question about something we didn't understand in class or a company meeting only to find that most ev

> How many of us have raised our hand and asked a "stupid" question about something we didn't understand in class or a company meeting only to find that most everyone else in the class/meeting was wondering the same thing - but was afraid to ask because they were afraid to look stupid? The fear isn't without cause, though. If you do ask these legitimate and useful questions all the time, some people will start thinking of you as "that guy who doesn't know anything". If these people are responsible for pay raise, promotions or other benefits, you will be left out. It's not a good or acceptable scenario, by any means, but it pays to try to understand the nature of the otherwise irrational fear.