Tue Sep 10 16:17:00 UTC 2024: ## Beware of Fake News: Don’t Fall for the ‘UT Scholarship’ and ‘Chiefs Coach’ Hoaxes
**A recent surge of false articles claiming the University of Texas revoked scholarships and Chiefs coach Andy Reid kicked players off the team for refusing to stand for the National Anthem has flooded social media.** These articles, while attracting massive engagement and support, are completely fabricated.
**Despite the widespread belief in these stories, there is no truth to them.** The University of Texas has never pulled scholarships for this reason, and coach Reid has never taken such action. The articles, originally intended as satire, were later shared as fact by individuals eager to believe them.
**This incident highlights the rampant gullibility of many people, who readily accept information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs.** The author, citing Mencken’s term “Boobus Americanus,” argues that this gullibility extends beyond political leanings, affecting both left and right-wing perspectives.
**He then critiques the widespread promotion of “ease of voting” initiatives, arguing that they are often driven by political agendas and cater to disengaged voters, potentially leading to poor leadership decisions.** While advocating for open polls for registered voters, he questions the need to encourage voting among those who lack genuine interest in the process.
First Piper 