How does post-truth politics influence public perception of experts and expertise?

Post-truth politics refers to a political approach where objective facts and evidence are less influential in shaping public opinion compared to appeals to emotions, personal beliefs, and subjective opinions. In this context, post-truth politics can significantly influence the public perception of experts and expertise.

Firstly, post-truth politics tends to undermine the credibility and authority of experts. As objective facts and evidence take a backseat, experts who rely on these elements to support their arguments may be seen as less trustworthy or biased. This erosion of trust can lead to a general skepticism towards experts and their opinions, making it more challenging for them to effectively communicate their knowledge and influence public opinion.

Secondly, post-truth politics often promotes the idea that everyone's opinion is equally valid, regardless of their level of expertise or knowledge on a particular subject. This can lead to a devaluation of expertise, as individuals may feel empowered to dismiss expert opinions and rely solely on their own beliefs or the opinions of like-minded individuals. Consequently, the public may become less receptive to expert advice and more inclined to rely on subjective interpretations or misinformation.

Furthermore, post-truth politics can create an environment where misinformation and conspiracy theories thrive. With the devaluation of expertise, individuals may be more susceptible to accepting false or misleading information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs or emotions. This can further erode public trust in experts and expertise, as misinformation becomes more prevalent and influential in shaping public perception.

Overall, post-truth politics has the potential to significantly impact the public perception of experts and expertise. It can undermine the credibility of experts, devalue their opinions, and promote a culture of skepticism towards objective facts and evidence. This can have detrimental effects on the public's ability to make informed decisions and engage in constructive political discourse.