A Democratic Theory of Truth

Linda M. G. Zerilli

Format
Hardback
Publisher
The University of Chicago Press
Country
United States
Published
16 May 2025
Pages
272
ISBN
9780226839028

A Democratic Theory of Truth

Linda M. G. Zerilli

A critique of the concept of truth presupposed by the post-truth debate-and a bold new vision for a more pluralistic citizenry.

We say that we live in a "post-truth" era because disinformation threatens our confidence in the existence of a shared public world. Affirming objective truth may, therefore, seem necessary to save democracy. According to political theorist Linda M. G. Zerilli, such affirmation can stifle political debate and silence dissent. In fact, Zerilli argues that the unqualified insistence on objective truth is as dangerous for democracy as denying it.

Drawing on Arendt, Foucault, and Wittgenstein, A Democratic Theory of Truth challenges the concept of truth presupposed by the post-truth debate. It argues that we, the people, have an essential role in discovering and evaluating any truth relevant to the political realm. The result is a striking defense of plurality, dissent, and opinion in contemporary democratic societies.

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