In reality, most of us depend on others to articulate the issues, to interpret data, and explain the implications. Few of us have the time or interest to read background reports for ourselves; even fewer have the inclination or ability to examine primary data. The volume, breadth, and complexity of our national issues defy casual understanding and frequently overwhelm sincere seekers of deeper insight. As a result, we substantively rely on the opinions of others to form our own. Yet, many of those on whom we rely as the basis of our opinions are doing the exact same thing. […] This is a perverse dysfunction in the way we form and reinforce our opinions.
