It only became fully apparent to me this year that the Roman saying "bread and circuses" doesn't just refer to the widespread provision of basic necessities ("bread") and "circuses" like football, but that these "circuses" must also appear authentic. And that's precisely what politicians and governments in the so-called "Western World" or "Free World" are there for. They create the impression of being "real," meaning they are meant to appear as if they were actually the ones making decisions and wielding power and influence. In this way, a large portion of the population is distracted by politics (from essential questions and problems). And that's exactly the intention.