In a post-truth world, according to experts, feelings and personal convictions have become more important than facts. In recent years, the term “post-truth” has gained prominence, especially in the realms of politics, media, and public discourse. The advent of social media has also added complexity to the matter. Since anyone is allowed to have an opinion, this has led to an increase in the spread of misinformation. The Oxford Dictionaries declared “post-truth” the Word for 2016, defining it as relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief. This shift has profound implications for democracy, social cohesion, and the pursuit of truth itself.
We witnessed the Ramaphosa and Trump White House showdown that has inspired a thousand memes, some comical and others crude. The spread of the so-called “White Genocide” myth is a symptom of the post-truth world we find ourselves in. This erroneous talking-point had officially made its way to the most powerful office in the world, fully endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump. This is emblematic of the challenges faced in the post-truth society. The âWhite Genocideâ myth falsely claims the white population of South Africa is being systematically killed or oppressed through diversity policies, i.e., correcting past injustices (apartheid) through transformation. While lacking any empirical foundation, this narrative has gained traction, particularly in far-right circles in South Africa and in the United States. Recycled and amplified by right-wing Afrikaaner groups in South Africa such as Afriforum and Solidarity, it draws on deep-seated fears of cultural loss and demographic change, particularly in Western countries.
When Trump tweeted in 2018 about alleged killings of white farmers in South Africa, he echoed white nationalist talking points without evidence. It signaled how such ideas could move from fringe to center stage, and in political conversations involving some of the most powerful leaders in the world. How we go about countering misinformation is a behemoth task today, but very necessary. We can start by teaching people how to spot fake news and think critically. Start early in schools and continue in adult education. People should learn to question sources, spot bias or manipulation, and verify facts. Fighting post-truth narratives isnât just about proving someone wrong. Itâs about building a culture that values truth and rewards honesty.