Recorded November 7, 2017.

In Jonathan Swift’s essay on ‘Political Lying’ he comments poignantly that ‘the greatest liar hath his believers, and it often happens that if a lie be believed only for an hour, it hath done its work, and there is no further occasion for it. Falsehood flies, and truth comes limping after it, so that when men come to be undeceived, it is too late; the jest is over, and the tale hath had its effect.’

In what has been deemed a post-truth era, it is not solely ‘political lying’ which is in question, but an entire machine of misinformation which is readily available and targeted at willing listeners. Debate has become increasingly polarised and expert comment has been rejected in place of opinion and personal belief. When propaganda caroms so easily around the world, how can non-experts learn to distinguish truth? This panel will look at the factors which led us to this point and consider what lies ahead for the future of facts.

MODERATOR: Stephen Rae, Editor in Chief, Independent News and Media Group

PANELISTS

‘“. . . believe me”: Post Truth, My Truth’

Professor Joseph Slaughter, Columbia University

‘Will Post-Truth Set Us Free?’

Dr Fáinche Ryan, Trinity College Dublin

‘The Ongoing Struggle for Enlightenment Against its Enemies' 

Professor Todd Gitlin, Columbia University

‘Post-Truth, Alternative Facts, Fake News: The Responsibility of Universities’ 

Professor Darryl Jones, Trinity College Dublin

Learn more at: https://www.tcd.ie/trinitylongroomhub/