One of the saddest lessons of history is this: If we've been bamboozled long enough, we tend to reject any evidence of the bamboozle. We're no longer interested in finding out the truth. The bamboozle has captured us. It is simply too painful to acknowledge -- even to ourselves -- that we've been so credulous. (So the old bamboozles tendto persist as the new bamboozles rise.)

Summary

This quote reflects on the tendency of humans to remain attached to their beliefs even in the face of contradicting evidence. It suggests that once people have been deceived for a considerable period, they become reluctant to accept any truth that challenges their existing convictions. This is because the realization of being deceived feels incredibly distressing and possibly even embarrassing. Consequently, individuals may continue to cling to old, discredited notions while new deceptions emerge and thrive.

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