It's not about having knowledge others do not, it's about having a quality that is visibly absent in a majority of the population. Non-conformity. Most people are psychology paralyzed against entertaining thought contrary to the status quo. The TV and their social circle dictates what they are and are not allowed to believe. Non-conformity of thought, coupled with critical analysis and the willingness to admit when you're (frequently) wrong is unique. It's significance should not be downplayed.
How do you know