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2024-11-11

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Many voters are willing to accept misinformation from political leaders – even when they know it’s factually inaccurate, if they believe the statements evoke a deeper, more important “truth.” (theconversation.com)

submitted 1 month ago by solrize to c/science

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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.”

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[–] EleventhHour 18 points 1 month ago (1 children)

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

[–] solrize 5 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago) (2 children)

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 4 points 1 month ago

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

[–] EleventhHour 1 points 1 month ago

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