Gullibility is synonymous with ignorance

WE are all conditioned to accept what people say to us, so long as it is backed up by plausible explanations and is wrapped up in acceptable language. An impressive presentation usually stops us from investigating the "facts" contained therein. Politicians have always known this and are trained to use it to get their own ends, which are too often self-serving.

But, they are not on their own. In recent decades other professions have stopped being honest and have taken us all for a ride. This century, you can take your pick of people who have seemed plausible, but have lied to you.

Politicians and journalists are notorious for it and always have been. Accountants were found out by the Enron scandal and bankers by the global financial crisis. Lawyers at the top …