Many people don't base many of their decisions on evidence or an understanding of mechanisms of action. I understand that there is some deep primal psychology underpinning that pathway as well.
The internet exacerbates the thinking blockage through bubble learning. With the old fashioned media we have to listen to or read though a lot of stuff by a lot of people to happen upon those with similar views to ourselves. By contrast an internet bubble allows filter out anything beyond our own narrow viewpoints.
This blockage of thinking can only be resolved through education. The saving grace for Australia has been encouragement for school kids to go through to Year 12 (or TAFE) and for many to complete a university degree (albeit that many degrees are now sheep dip in format).
Until the US adopts a more robust approach to education and learning for the many that nation's once strong culture will continue to wither on the vine. Trumpism is a reflection of the malaise.
