Articles of faith
They are aware it exists but do not concern themselves much with its contents. Government ministers, like ministers of religion, refer reverently to their foundational text. They depend on the fact that, apart from themselves and a few political anoraks, not many have a clue about what is actually in it.
Nonetheless, by repeated reference, in authoritative tones, to the sacredness of the document, the citizenry are trained to know that it is akin to those books carried aloft in procession. The contents might be made up, but this is not a time to display our ignorance. No, it is important in an age of disbelief that we should all believe in something. Best then to put it in a corner, put a candle in front of it and if any talk at all is needed, then let it be hushed and suitable.
