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I really believe there is something in the nature of a…

“I really believe there is something in the nature of a democracy that naturally leads people to distrust the government, to assume because a democracy is built by people just like themselves that there must be secret plots and cover-ups and wizards behind the scenes running the machine.” quote by Christopher Bollen
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“I really believe there is something in the nature of a democracy that naturally leads people to distrust the government, to assume because a democracy is built by people just like themselves that there must be secret plots and cover-ups and wizards behind the scenes running the machine.”

Christopher Bollen

About This Quote

Source Interview: Author Talk, The Lost City of D, 2020

Democracy’s openness breeds suspicion, leading people to imagine hidden conspiracies.

In simple terms: People tend to distrust governments in democratic societies.

Key Takeaway

Recognize bias toward conspiracy thinking.

Themes

politics trust psychology

Mood

critical contemplative

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • public discourse
  • media consumption
  • political activism

Key Concepts

social theory cognitive bias democratic ideals

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence supports or refutes hidden agendas?
  • How can healthy skepticism be balanced?
A Different Perspective

Not all distrust is irrational; legitimate concerns exist.

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