The Post-Truth Condition: Philosophical Reflections

The Post-Truth Condition: Philosophical Reflections, edited by Tarun Jose Kattumana and Simon Truwant, demonstrates that the absence of a unitary understanding of the phenomenon of post-truth stems from the complex nature of the "post-truth condition" itself. By approaching post-truth as a broad and multi-layered societal issue, the contributors offer an original contribution to the existing scholarship in three ways. First, they show that post-truth can only be adequately understood if it is viewed not only as a political matter, but also as a pervasive cultural phenomenon. Secondly, the contributors concur that a profound understanding of the post-truth condition can only be gained if it is studied through a conceptual, empirical, and historical lens. Lastly, they maintain that a productive understanding of the post-truth condition also demands a nuanced and openminded take on both its negative, reactionary characteristics and its positive, liberating potential. Throughout this volume, philosophy of history, epistemology, philosophy of science, political philosophy, psychoanalysis, phenomenology, and philosophy of art join forces to clarify the pervasive character, dangers, and opportunities of our post-truth condition.