Eagerness for knowledge is of course a good trait but there's no question it leads the Noldor into trouble. The problem with the Mirdain is that they've apparently learned nothing at all from the errors of their elders, (ie: listening to Melkor back in Aman). I've always suspected that Celebrimbor was competing with his grandfather's memory, trying to equal or surpass Feanor. Naturally he'd be ready to lend an ear to anybody who might help him achieve that - and shut his ears to any warnings. But I don't think the Mirdain would have heeded Sauron for a moment if he hadn't had a 'fair semblance'.
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