Communication Tools for Constructing Reality of the Post-Truth Era

Abstract

An analysis of communication tools for constructing reality, which are actively used in the post-truth era, is carried out. The influence of information technologies on the evolution and quality of modern media is highlighted and the role of social networks is defined. Features of communication tools of the post-truth era are determined. The role of modern communication technologies in shaping the political consciousness of society is revealed. The commercialization of political media, the growth of populism and the reincarnation of authoritarianism have actualized the phenomenon of "post-truth". In the struggle for electoral support and the achievement of political goals, the truth becomes unimportant, and the purpose and effectiveness of its achievement justify lies. The possibility of open disregard or manipulation of facts in the post-truth era contributed to the mass spread of constructing reality phenomenon in order to achieve political goals. Polytainment plays a leading role in the set of tools for constructing reality. The presentation of information that takes place in the format of a talk show turns into a spectacle, and the charisma of speakers who purposefully shape an imaginary picture of the world, dominates over objective reality. The improvement of modern means of information processing has supplemented the toolkit of constructed reality with the technique of political targeting. Internet trolls occupy an important place among the tools for constructing post-truth era reality. The most famous Russian "troll factory" distributed provocative content with the aim to influence either domestic political life of certaim countries or perception of users of global social networks regarding geopolitical problems in the world.

Keywords

• communication, post-truth, social networks, construction of reality, political consciousness.