Fake News
Fake news is a trendy topic today – but it is an important one because it affects all of us. No matter how much we may think otherwise, we are all, sadly, susceptible to confirmation bias - the tendency to filter information according to what we already believe or want to believe.
This would not be a problem if we could be sure that all we believe is truly accurate. Unfortunately, what we believe is, in reality, shaped by a great variety of experiences, people and influences and we would likely be shocked by what weak foundations some of our strongest convictions are built on if we ever paused to consider them.
Realising this, many today have decided it best to take the path of doubt. To refuse to believe anything unless it can objectively be shown to be true. Over a century ago, however, psychologist William James observed the difficulty with such a position
It is often practically impossible to distinguish doubt from dogmatic negation. If I refuse to stop a murder because I am in doubt whether it be not justifiable homicide, I am virtually abetting the crime. If I refuse to bale out a boat because I am in doubt whether my efforts will keep her afloat, I am really helping to sink her. If in the mountain precipice I doubt my right to risk a leap, I actively connive at my destruction. He who commands himself not to be credulous of God, of duty, of freedom, of immortality, may again and again be indistinguishable from him who dogmatically denies them. Scepticism in moral matters is an active ally or immorality. It’s like standing on a cliff edge. You have to choose one. Standing still is a choice.
In short, it is often the case that doubting can be as dangerous as taking a step of faith.
What are we to do, then, when we are sorrounded by such a storm of contradicting opinions and ideas all claiming to be ‘truth.’ What can we do?
Happily, we are not left without a guide. Jesus Christ tells us:
If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:31-32
Christ claims to be sure foundation that we can stand upon. He, and His words, are the standard upon which we judge everything else. He teaches us what science cannot - What is right and wrong? What is the meaning of life? How do I find love? How do I find peace?
The best way to spot a forgery is not to learn all the ways in which something may be faked. That would be an impossible task. Instead, the way to spot a forgery is to know the genuine intimately. As Jesus put it:
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls
Matthew 11:28-29