It seems to me that "believe experts" is somewhat analogous to Catholicism, and the contrary to Protestantism.

And I think that Christians over the centuries have had very good critiques of both amid the wars and persecutions.

The experts are not necessarily reliable, may be corrupt, need to have checks and balances.

But the average person is not as smart, not as educated, and can be led astray.

It's a never ending conflict because there is no simple answer as to which is best.