The biggest problem is that insiders haven't seen the factors that erode legitimacy.

I'd point to Germany's phase-out of nuclear power as an example of the kind of thing that demonstrates the incompetence of individuals and institutions. I don't think it matter so much if it was right or wrong or a good policy or a bad policy in that, stretching on for 22 years and being characterized by endless waffling, the saga could convince anyone, regardless of their views, of the incompetence of the government or rather it's inability to see beyond the next election, face up to the challenge of climate change and security.