Why do we frame things in "con v lib", "repub v dem", etc, when all evidence shows none are relevant?

Things are always more complex than us vs them or left vs right, or whatever. But shutting everything off and becoming deliberately ignorant of the things happening in the world is just not a viable answer. The key flaw in your scenario is that everyone has to do this. If some people stay tuned in to the world while others don't, they're going to have an advantage. And the political movers and shakers will keep doing everything they are now but without your knowledge. As long as they never bother you, that might be fine. But sooner or later, some crazy scheme "for the common good" is going to land on your doorstep and turn your simple world upside down. I think it is better for us to remember that this nation is made up of people. We are not "a People" we are people, each of us individual. Each with our own thoughts and mannerisms, and interests. We each make the decisions that shape our lives and the lives of those around us. If we respect the individuality of ourselves and our neighbors then we will make responsible choices. It is when we start treating "society" as if it is a collective hive mind of humanity that can be altered, controlled, or manipulated into some ideal vision, that we lose respect for individual people. The only person you can control is yourself. You can attempt to convince people to do or say what you think they ought to, but ultimately the choice is theirs. They may face consequences for their choices and so might you. But you just have to live with the fact that the choices of others are beyond your control.