Is it true?

[Ryuuko]

Seems it is situational and the circumstances involved is what decides whether playing dumb is good or bad.

If in doubt it's easiest to just be yourself.

[LikkleMel]

But why be yourself when you can act like something you need to be?

[Ryuuko]

But why be yourself when you can act like something you need to be?

Such facades if not done well will be seen through but if it’s for fun, then aim for the stars

[Paradox]

It really depends. Do you feel the need to seem smart, or would you prefer anonymity? Is the situation in need of a smart person to say something, or is it just something that can be let go? Your intelligence will show itself in your actions, anyway, so "playing dumb" may be self-defeating if everyone can tell you're smart in the first place.

As to capitalism, I subscribe to the adage of "The reward of a good worker is more work." It's the grind down philosophy, as well, because as soon as your boss sees you working hard, guess who they're going to give the hard work to? Not the one that says "Fuck this job," but the one who's worried about performance and diligence. Yes, you get more hours, but that's it.