Why don't people realize tax cuts during weak economy/ time of war are the primary source of current deficit?

Politicians often believe raising taxes will hurt their chances at being elected so they do what ever they can to avoid raising taxes or even talk about raising taxes. The sad truth is there is a lack of awareness with the general public as to why taxes are needed and what will happen if changes are not made. Also most people only care about themselves and cannot see past their own nose so it is very hard to explain to them how making them pay more money in taxes are needed. All most people want is for other people to take care of them when they need help and not to have to take care of other people when they don't neeed help.