Johnny Carson's first network show was a quiz program called "Who Do You Trust?" If that were broadcast today, the collective answer might be: very few!

 

Back in the 1950s and '60s, lying and stealing were kind of serious.  If caught, you likely paid a price.  Not anymore.

 

A new academic study puts forth that trusting other people increases happiness. Trust helps us form "vital social connections" and prosper.

 

Well, that's nice.  So is Peter Pan.  There's a reason Judas Iscariot is featured in the New Testament.  As the cliche goes, let's get real.

 

Trust is earned.  Over a period of time. We've all been betrayed.  Doesn't mean you go cynical and isolationist.  But caution regarding others is a necessity.

 

At the end of my mother's life, I had to hire caregivers to stay with her in the house. Most of them stole things, then lied about it.  Ask any attorney, and they'll tell you perjury in the courtroom now dominates legal proceedings.

 

Adultery, fraud, deceit in the marketplace, scams in social media - all out of control.

 

So, trusting others does remain a noble thing.  But be careful.  Very careful.

 

See you this evening for the No Spin News.