Humans aren't evolved to cope with complexity. Our relatively simple primate brains crave simplicity, and therefore the simpler the message the more readily it's embraced. Whether we're talking about "taking back control" (Brexit) or "making 'murka great again" (Trump) or pretending JK Rowling is transphobic (she's clearly not) or shouting about climate change, one constant remains: the simple message wins over complex reality every time.

As humans can't change, we can only shake our heads while mobs chant and individuals work themselves up into a frenzy about whatever the mass media happens to be sensationalizing this week.

More rational creatures would accept that there can be few certainties in a complex world, and that really looking at all relevant data would guide more adequate policy choices. But we're never going to be rational creatures, so the circus lurches on.