A question of terminology. Why do we use "trust" with politicians? [View all]

[NRaleighLiberal]

I am not at all referring to any particular candidate. I am referring to pretty much all of them. Maybe I hold the word in too high esteem - consider it a strong, serious word.

From the dictionary -

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trust. noun

firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.
"relations have to be built on trust"
synonyms: confidence, belief, faith, certainty, assurance, conviction, credence; reliance

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I trust one person in my life - my wife. I trust her because it is exactly as the definition states - my firm belief in her reliability is based upon evidence of 35 years- my experience with her utterly.

Because of that, I don't use the word lightly. I would never say that I trust a politician to represent my best interests, because I don't really know them, and they certainly don't know me. I know what they say in public, but not when they are out of the microphone or video camera.

So I guess my preferred terms are "like" (or "dislike&quot , or "am hopeful about" (or dread) - but trust?

Nope. It is just that when the various groups get into it here at DU (and elsewhere), the word is tossed around so lightly (in my opinion) - and I get curious as to what the basis of the trust is....

That's all - I've been pondering this lately, and just wanted to toss it out there.