Intelligent people find it easier to trust others.

This is the conclusion reached by a study conducted by sociologist Noah Carl from the University of Oxford. Data from the General Social Survey was analyzed for this purpose—a survey that has been used to study the social behavior of Americans since 1972. In addition, the participants underwent an intelligence test.

The result was that the more intelligent the person, the more willing they were to trust others. According to the researchers, intelligent people have a better understanding of human nature and are therefore better able to assess both people and situations. This means they are more likely to interact with people from whom they have nothing bad to expect.

But when is trust really wise, and when would control be better?

I think one thing is clear: trusting everyone is just as big a mistake as trusting no one. Between the two extremes of suspicion and naivety, there is a space that needs to be filled with intelligent analysis.

Whether you trust someone in a particular matter is influenced by two factors: One factor is the degree to which you are fundamentally willing to trust others. This is a matter of inner attitude (trustworthiness). The second factor is the analysis you perform with your mind to assess the possible consequences of the decision to trust (analysis). Only when both factors are used effectively is it possible to make wise decisions and find viable solutions.

Four quadrants of trust

The two dimensions of "trustworthiness" and "analysis"can be summarized in four quadrants:

• The first quadrant, "Blind Trust," is characterized by little analysis and a high willingness to trust others. This carries great risks. People trust blindly without questioning the consequences. People in this quadrant tend to fall for dubious offers, for example.

• The second quadrant, "No Trust," is characterized by a low willingness to trust and little analysis. These people tend not to trust anyone—often not even themselves. This results in indecision, hesitation, defensive behavior, and insecurity.

• The third quadrant, "Distrust," shows a low level of trust and a high level of analysis. These people tend to analyze things to death. They often only trust themselves. They tend toward perfectionism and micromanagement. This slows down processes and increases costs.

• In the fourth quadrant, "Smart Trust," are people who are generally very trusting but also analyze situations comprehensively. They place their trust in others, but not unreservedly in everyone. Depending on the situation, they may not trust others at all or only to a limited extent.

Smart Trust effective. People who trust wisely generally assume that others are credible. This allows them to take advantage of opportunities and possibilities. At the same time, however, they keep risks low through targeted control. If they are disappointed, they can forgive and do not hold a grudge against the other person. At the same time, however, they set clear boundaries. True to the motto: trust is good, control is good too.