Perception is real - even when it is not reality. This is a quote of my own. You are free to use it provided you acknowledge it.
Politicians know full well that perception is what it is all about.
What matters is how people see things. Most disputes and conflicts are about different perceptions. Traditionally, thinking and philosophy have been about 'truth' or search for the truth. Getting rid of false perceptions may be a noble endeavour but learning how to deal with perceptions is far more practical. According to David Perkins of Harvard ninety per cent of the errors in thinking are indeed errors of perception.