When distrust is misplaced, social and democratic bonds weaken

Misplaced distrust leads citizens to dismiss legitimate leaders, experts, or groups. This distrust may be fueled by prejudice or misinformation, and political rhetoric. This comment highlights the moral and democratic consequences of misplaced distrust. In this Comment, the authors argue that misplaced distrust leads citizens to dismiss legitimate leaders, experts, or groups. This distrust may be fueled by prejudice or misinformation, and political rhetoric and has moral and democratic consequences.