But it is a bit more complicated than that, I think. I suspect that almost all of the Mainstream Economists have a high opinion of themselves and the quality of their work, however laughable that may seem. In order to hold that opinion they have complex rationalizations, many of them well stated in the literature, others more private, that allow them to convince themselves that they have intellectual integrity and are doing important work. That accomplishment is the chief bulwark of Mainstream Economics. As long as they can continue their beliefs they will be able to defend their position convinced they are doing so on the merits. That defense will be effective not on the merits but on account of the mental capture they have accomplished.

As the Dutch said while fighting the Spanish: "It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."