When watching Jeopardy on TV, why do some people call the contestant a "dummy" when they don't know an answer

Question

that they happen know the answer to? Do you know anyone who does this? What kind of person would do this?

Answer 1

We, as a species, seek to advance Ourselves at every opportunity which presents itself. As individuals We strive to attain self actualization and ego gratification. "I" know the answer,ergo "I" am a superior person. Mind You, when "I" don't know an answer "I" am not a "dummy", merely "not prepared for 'Tricky' questions" like that! Point taken?

Answer 2

It is a primal human reaction. As with many reactions of this kind, the person making the statement is trying to make themselves look better, or in this case, smarter by putting someone else down. Oftentimes not realizing that they made themselves look worse instead of better as was attempted. Everyone knows someone who has done this or something similar. See how they react when you know one that they don't and start with a derogatory word towards them. :)

Answer 3

Sometimes, the answer is so obvious and common that some people call the person stupid if they don't get it right. Maybe?

Answer 4

They are giving themselves a little ego boost. They assume that because they know the answer, anyone who doesn't must be stupid.