Because we’ve been lied to and lied to, and it hurts to be…
““Because we’ve been lied to and lied to, and it hurts to be lied to. It’s ultimately just about that complicated: it hurts. It denies you respect for yourself, for the liar, for the world. Especially if the lies are chronic, systemic, if hard experience seems to teach that everything you’re supposed to believe in’s really a game based on lies. Young Voters have been taught well and thoroughly. You may not personally remember Vietnam or Watergate, but it’s a good bet you remember ‘No new taxes’ and ‘Out of the loop’ and ‘No direct knowledge of any impropriety at this time’ and Did not inhale’ and ‘Did not have sex with that woman’ and etc. etc. It’s depressing and painful to believe that the would-be ‘public servants’ you’re forced to choose between are all phonies whose only real concern is their own care and feeding and who will lie so outrageously with such a straight face that you just know they have to believe you’re an idiot. So who wouldn’t fall all over themselves for a top politician who actually seemed to talk to you like you were a person, an intelligent adult worthy of respect?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage critiques systemic deception in politics, eroding trust and self‑respect, and urges authentic, respectful engagement.
In simple terms: Political lies damage trust and self‑respect.
Key Takeaway
Seek truth and demand accountability.
Themes
politics
trust
truth
disillusionment
Mood
critical
somber
Type
essay
political commentary
When to use this quote
- voting decisions
- activism
- media literacy
- community dialogue
Key Concepts
systemic deception
public service
media skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals restore trust in public institutions?
- What personal actions counteract political cynicism?
A Different Perspective
Changing entrenched political narratives is difficult.