This in many ways is worse than simple irrationality. It is usually linked to blatant commercialism. A lying advert is its least offensive form. A most obnoxious form is a series of arguments presented in the media, in books, pamphlets, on the internet, videos etc. Thousands, even millions, believe and sign-up.
Powerful bodies are often behind such unscrupulousness.
I altogether lost sense of direction. Buzzing and droning above were becoming louder with each passing step. It was obvious that I was close to Biggin Hill, now a commercial airport, but once famous for its key role in the Battle of Britain. The two of us pored and squinted at it for some time until a path was found to return me to my home for the night in Farnborough, Kent, with an opportunity to sample further specimens of Kentish ale and reflect on some other of today's social phenomena.