why do people tend to play dumb when something goes wrong?

Answer 1

It's a natural defense mechanism. Everyone wants to do right. When you do wrong, and you know it is your fault, you panic, and think, not me! I didn't do it! and sometimes pride prevents you from saying, I did it, I'm sorry and it wont happen again. People need to stop worrying about what they did wrong and worry about what they can do right the next time.

Answer 2

it's obvious that people do not want to take responsibility for fixing the problem. so they go by the philosophy what they do not know can't hurt them!