There was no mistaking the face of power. Not only was the center of power always on display but the consequences of engaging their domain, were equally visible. Not so today. Power's countenance has become invisible and retaliatory action uncertain. Control, implemented by modern technologies, became more subtle, and vastly enhanced the chicanery of power.
Deception is a required practice at every level of power.
To sustain an appearance of good behavior, congressional committees select a wrong doing they have decided should be investigated. Panels of experts are invited to testify before a committee. For the most part, their testimony is solid and, if it touches on social subjects, their portrayal of real problems is accurate and their attempts to suggest remedies sincere. Eventually, the polite committee members thank the panel of experts, adjourn the hearing with a slam of the gavel and the show is over. Reams of resultant documents we have footed the bill for are ceremoniously gathered and unceremoniously squirreled away.