I think the big point here is that reasoning, critical thinking and assorted mental disciplines are no longer taught, or at least downplayed in contemporary education. People won't practice, and certainly not enjoy, skills they've never been acquainted with.
Conspiracy theories say that this is something the Powers That Be inflict on us intentionally. I can't be sure but I think the blame could just as easily rest with simple bungled priorities and seemingly expedient cost-cutting measures.
The reason are emotions, many of them subconscious, like you said. Emotional patterns can be complex, but the solution isn't: Less pressure and fear mongering. More appreciation, time and space for children to grow into responsible adults.
I don't think we're able to steer the ship around though, unfortunately.
Not like "you cannot derive basic conclusions from simple inputs because you were unfortunately born without ability to do that", but more like "you refuse to derive basic conclusions from simple inputs because _________________."
The reasons aren't clear and are possibly complex and subconscious, but it seems more about refusing to do the basic mental processing, despite having the capability to do it.