My understanding is that "idiot" is an informal and offensive word in English (correct me if I am wrong).
I would like to use an equivalent word or expression that is more appropriate for an essay with written formal English. Could you propose some alternatives?
Thanks!!
PS: Note that I am looking for a word to refer to non-specific people or to a crowd. It should be a clear, but polite or formal word, that states one's opinion about a situation without insulting in a vulgar way.