The media in the face of truth: speaking, listening, and conversion

Abstract

The article reflects on truth as a fundamental criterion for the functioning of the mass media. In the face of contemporary fascination with pluralism and fragmentariness, the oneness of truth is recalled, which has the power to integrate dispersed collectivities. The text distinguishes between “true speech” (language that does not falsify reality) and “spoken truth” (disclosure of truth in the communication space). It also points out the necessity of active and wise listening to truth, engaging the whole person and protecting against manipulation and illusions. The ultimate goal of the recipient’s interaction with the media should be conversion (metanoia) to truth, consisting of abandoning untruths and building the ability to distinguish between good and evil. A complete turn towards truth constitutes a media conversion, protecting human dignity and guaranteeing true freedom.