Voters’ ‘moral flexibility’ helps them defend politicians’ misinformation − if they believe the inaccurate info speaks to a larger truth
theconversation.com
In a series of surveys, researchers studied when and why voters put up with inaccurate statements from their leaders.

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.”

  • solrize@lemmy.worldOP
    61·
    1 month 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.worldEnglish
      51·
      1 month ago

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

    • EleventhHour@lemmy.world
      21·
      1 month ago

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