Belief Systems

Our belief systems drive our behaviour. A belief in trustworthiness determines how much we trust others. We surround ourselves with people we perceive as worthy of our trust. If that trust is returned, we feel connected.

Conversely, if we are betrayed, we feel a sense of loss. It shakes us, and it can make us wary of trusting again.

Then, there is the bigger picture. We trust medical professionals to diagnose us correctly and the police to be there for us when we need them.

Many others to whom we have no direct connection ask for our trust.

Side note: I don't think asking for trust is a way of gaining it. Trust needs to be built, not asked for.

Politicians, however, do it constantly. They challenge our beliefs, which in turn challenges our behaviour patterns. They do not specifically ask for our trust but attempt to build it through their words and actions.

Many of us have no direct connection to a politician other than through the media, and we trust the media to report accurately. We look for signs that our belief system is being reinforced.

Our critical thinking and fact-checking skills need to kick in. Discussing rival politicians with others brings confirmation bias to the fore. We’re on safe ground, however, if our belief systems align.

We can choose not to discuss such a topic with a trusted friend whose political beliefs don’t quite match our own. If the friend is worth it, there’s no need to let politics get in the way.