Do we care about what we share?:a proposal for dealing with the proliferation of false information by creating a public platform.

Abstract

Meaningful engagement with public space is a fundamental part of how we determine truth. The use of social media as a replacement for public space has exacerbated a crisis in public confidence in shared truths. This article advocates for the establishment of a truly public network or digital platform for ‘truth telling’, as a counterpoint for this growing public incredulity. Because ‘truth’ is an expression of power, such a platform would need to operate as an inclusive public, creating a space for valorising earnest public contributions and recognising the inherent contingency of truthfulness and authority. Such a forum would act as an important counterbalance to the proliferation of misinformation on social media but more importantly, it could help form a more collaborative and constructive shared public space