most people have to believe that what they're doing is the right thing, and most people do. that's why idiots are up in arms about global warming, and taking freedom of expression to an extreme. you can't virtue signal if you don't believe on some level that you have virtue.

people with discernment can't be lied to forever... but many just treat the loudest voice like an infallible ancient text... without questioning their motivation for being so loud.