“An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does the truth become error because nobody will see it.”
― Mahatma Gandhi
When something is repeated over and over, it can take on the appearance of truth or at least some form of acceptance. The advertising industry is built on this premise. Say something enough times, associate it with something else, and the two will be forever linked in the minds of many.
Misinformation repeated endlessly takes on a life of its own. That is how conspiracy theories gain life and filter through society. As outlandish as some of these theories may seem, once they have been shared multiple times in multiple ways, they often assume an air of truth and authority.
Are there aliens at Area 51, or is the facility just used to test experimental aircraft for the military? Lee Harvey Oswald – guilty or innocent of shooting JFK? Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster are celebrities in their own right, without any real proof that they exist. How about chemtrails? And where exactly is Jimmy Hoffa?
With technology now allowing information to be shared across the world within seconds, the ability for falsehoods to spread rapidly is unprecedented. Always remember to use common sense when processing new information, and don’t jump to conclusions too quickly. Finding the facts is more difficult now than ever before.
Thought for Today – Be kind to yourself. It’s good to think of others but if you aren’t taking care of you, there will be nothing you can do for anyone else. If you need some support, reach out for it. If you need a break, take one. Nothing is normal right now and it’s okay not to be okay with it. Take care of your body and mind, and then show yourself some compassion. You don’t have to be a superhero every day.
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”
― Mother Teresa