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This is called rational irrationality

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rational_irrationality

That wikipedia article reads weird. It sounds like a formalized collection of obvious facts.

I think this ignores the fact that there are very converted efforts to use well-researched methods to manipulate and mislead people at the ballotbox in favor of the vested interests.

The same interests also conspire to keep people preoccupied with basic needs and distractions that leave them with little time to properly research issues.

At the end of the day, does it actually matter?

Assuming ‘it’s not their fault’ also removes consequences and/or accountability, which also encourages the behavior.

The general populace potentially not willing to make informed choices is the reason why we kept monarchy for so long.