Divine covering fire

The ability of a collective to admit error depends on the collective’s ability to engage in acts of ritual purification. Leaders often feel they cannot admit error lest they open themselves to criticism that would undermine their authority and their hold on power. For a leadership to be able to lead in the face of their admission of error requires divine covering fire that would fortify the leaders' position despite their exposing themselves to popular disapprobation and making themselves vulnerable by having to defend themselves. Purity allows the leaders to go on the defensive without losing strategic position. 

Purity allows for a rhythmic character to the processes of governance, for an ebb as well as a flow in the affairs of state. Purity among the people allows the leaders to admit error, which, in turn, allows the leaders to adopt the posture of humility. 

Purity sets the public stage for the countervailing of hubris.