One of my favorite sayings is, "people believe what they want to believe."  Often, facts and reality have little to do with beliefs.

For example, I believe in God because I think that's a positive thing.  Christianity clearly defines human behavior, and if you do good, you are rewarded eternally.  That sounds like a positive motivator for the planet, so I'm on board.  I want to believe.

In politics, it's a similar situation. Conservatives vs. liberals.  Republicans vs. Democrats.  People believe certain things are best for them and the country, so they vote that way.  Sometimes logic and problem-solving have nothing to do with it.

Recently, I read an interview with economist Lawrence Summers, the former president of Harvard.  He is a driving force behind President Biden's attempt to make a comeback.  Mr. Summers believes Biden is competent.

But he's not.  The country is a mess.  So why would a very smart guy like Summers believe otherwise?

Yes, he's a liberal and doesn't want to devour his own.  But there's another reason: "dangerous outcomes."  Summers sees the rise in populism (read Trump) as far more injurious than incompetence.

Not me.  I want good governance, policies that strengthen the nation.  Not scared of Trump.  He promoted prosperity.

That's what I believe.  Larry Summers disagrees.  Fine with me.