The inability of an ideological doctrine to convince people of its validity or sincerity may arise from its inability to meet practical demands, inconsistency of principle with practice, indoctrination with an opposing belief, or general dissension. An ideology which proves adequate for one society may prove inadequate for another. The social methodologies required to create, promulgate and sustain a global ideology have not yet been developed, so that parochial mindsets go unchallenged, pervading society with their limited views.
The Chinese 'Cultural Revolution' was an unsuccessful attempt to halt modernization. The peace movement, which is world-wide, is quasi-ideological and has not had sufficient success in the most heavily armed countries. Its failure to convince all peoples and leaders may lead to world disaster.
One of the foundations of political systems is ideology and yet most of the inherited ideologies are now in a state of decline. It is not that values or ethics are becoming any less important. Rather it is that the dominant ideologies, with their claim to offer total models of society, are bereft and impractical. They are unable to produce either convincing solutions to major social problems, or with inspiring ideals.
A motivating philosophy, political or religious, is needed from which to relate life and activity. If this need is not fulfilled apathy and alienation may result, also cynicism, materialism, and amoralism. Non-fulfillment of the need for ideology may arise from poverty or lack of material advantages and is exacerbated by injustices and inequality. Like individuals, it is impossible for nations to live without a conviction of moral direction, a generosity and purpose in national life; where there is no vision of the future, people will perish.