{Reference Type}: Journal Article {Title}: A knowledge curse: how knowledge can reduce human welfare. {Author}: Basu K;Weibull J; {Journal}: R Soc Open Sci {Volume}: 11 {Issue}: 8 {Year}: 2024 Aug {Factor}: 3.653 {DOI}: 10.1098/rsos.240358 {Abstract}: Greater knowledge is always an advantage for a rational individual. However, this article shows that for a group of rational individuals greater knowledge can backfire, leading to a worse outcome for all. Surprisingly, this can happen even when new knowledge does not mean the discovery of a new action but simply provides a deeper understanding of the interaction at stake. More specifically, enhanced knowledge about the current state of nature may hinder cooperation among purely self-interested individuals. The paper describes this paradoxical possibility-a 'knowledge curse'-and analyses the evolutionary process that occurs if, initially, only a few people have access to the greater knowledge. It concludes with a tentative comment on ways to avert this potential knowledge backlash.