How Much Trust Should Citizens Place in Institutions?

Lately I’ve been reflecting on the idea of institutional trust not just government, but media, courts, science, education, and even community organizations. Some people argue that trust is essential for a functioning society. Others say skepticism is healthy, even necessary, to keep power in check.

I’m curious how folks here navigate that tension.

How do you decide which institutions deserve trust, which deserve scrutiny, and which deserve both at the same time?

And what does earned trust look like in a political climate where so many people feel disillusioned?

I’d love to hear how others in this community think about rebuilding (or re‑imagining) trust in a way that strengthens liberty rather than weakens it.

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