Many voters are willing to accept misinformation from political leaders – even when they know it’s factually inaccurate. According to our research, voters often recognize when their parties’ claims are not based on objective evidence. Yet they still respond positively, if they believe these inaccurate statements evoke a deeper, more important “truth.”

  • EleventhHour@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    19
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    2 months ago

    This is merely a function/mechanic of self-delusion. But, then again, I’m sure everyone here already realizes that.

    • solrize@lemmy.worldOP
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      6
      arrow-down
      1
      ·
      edit-2
      2 months ago

      I dunno. The story of George Washington and the cherry tree is surely factually false, but it is ok as a parable. The higher truth evoked is that people should be honest. The irony is in dishonestly presenting the story as fact, of course.

      • bamfic@lemmy.world
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        5
        arrow-down
        1
        ·
        2 months ago

        His teeth were not wooden. They were pulled from the mouths of healthy slaves. Before novocaine was invented.

      • EleventhHour@lemmy.world
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        2
        arrow-down
        1
        ·
        2 months ago

        I do know. People will convince them of whatever they want if they’re desperate enough. It’s self-delusion.