Why Has Reality Fragmented in Politics?
The Rise of the Post-Truth Era
Modern politics is marked by a strange phenomenon: people no longer merely disagree about interpretations—they inhabit entirely different realities. What is obvious truth for one group appears as manipulation or deception to another.
This is more than polarization.
It is the collapse of shared reality.
What Is Shared Reality and Why Does It Matter?
Democracy does not require consensus, but it does require:
- Agreement on basic facts
- Distinction between fact and opinion
- A common ground for debate
Without shared reality, politics loses meaning.
What Does “Post-Truth” Mean?
In the post-truth era:
- Facts do not disappear
- Emotions outweigh facts
Political influence depends less on accuracy and more on emotional resonance.
“My Truth” Politics
When reality becomes personal:
- Objectivity loses authority
- Perception becomes absolute
- Opposition becomes threat
Reality turns into an extension of identity.
How Did Ignorance Grow in the Information Age?
Unlimited access to information creates overload. Overwhelmed minds seek belief, not verification.
Algorithms and Echo Chambers
Digital platforms:
- Reinforce existing views
- Filter out disagreement
- Create illusion of consensus
Reality narrows.
When Emotion Replaces Truth
Anger, fear, and resentment become political currency. Feeling becomes proof.
The Normalization of Conspiracy Thinking
Conspiracy narratives offer clarity in complexity. They thrive in fragmented reality.
Media: Mirror or Constructor?
Media frames reality rather than reflecting it. Different platforms create different worlds.
Does Politics Need Truth?
Not always. Emotion mobilizes faster than accuracy.
Why Persuasion No Longer Works
Persuasion requires trust and openness—both scarce in post-truth politics.
Reality as Identity
Changing one’s mind feels like losing oneself. Error becomes unacceptable.
Where Does This Lead?
Without shared reality:
- Democracy weakens
- Compromise disappears
- Power replaces dialogue
Conclusion: Can Reality Be Rebuilt?
Rebuilding shared reality is difficult but essential.
Truth is not just information—it is a moral commitment.
Without it, politics may survive, but society cannot.