Politics

The Politics of (Post-)Truth

Module code: L2109
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Dissertation

The success of political campaigns and actors that utilise misinformation and conspiracy theories, from Vote Leave to Donald Trump, has made ‘post-truth’ a commonplace label for 21st century politics. But what actually is post-truth politics? This module combines perspectives from Continental philosophy with current political research to provide students with the tools to critically analyse and discuss the origins, logic and manifestations of post-truth politics. Amongst others, students will engage with Nietzsche’s idea of ressentiment, Foucault’s work on truth-telling, psychoanalysis, critiques of neoliberalism and cultural histories of conspiracy to explore the politics of truth and post-truth.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate understanding of the multi-faceted, dynamic and contested nature of post-truth politics that emerges from existing literature.
• Show knowledge of different theoretical frameworks, ideas and concepts that give insight to the role of truth, misinformation and conspiracy in political processes.
• Locate and assess academic literature related to the role of truth, misinformation and conspiracy in past and contemporary politics.
• Use theoretical perspectives and academic literature to critically evaluate the phenomenon of post-truth politics in its qualities, potential causes and effects
• Identify and research a key issue or question related to truth, misinformation and conspiracy in politics
• Demonstrate experience of conceiving and producing a substantial work of analysis and argument, presented in accordance with professional scholarly standards.