To this was added, in the 21st century, the most dangerous invention of the digital era: “alternative facts”. They are not just lies, but narratives constructed to take the place of truth and dispute the very concept of reality. Its strength does not come from evidence, but from repetition, emotion and the ability to mobilize identities. When facts stop being a starting point and become a battlefield, society fragments into bubbles that no longer share the same world.
This is where we realize the misreading: neither structuralism defended that truth is arbitrary, nor relativism is sustainable as a basis for democratic coexistence. Truth can be mediated by structures, but it is not dispensable. It can be interpreted, but it is not optional. Social cohesion depends on a hard core of shared reality, such as numbers, scientific facts, historical events and verifiable rules, which allows the rest to be discussed.
Now it is precisely at this point that free journalism becomes indispensable. Not as a moral arbiter, but as a methodological guardian. Journalism does not guarantee absolute truth, but, when done well, it offers a transparent process of verification, confrontation and scrutiny. Journalism must make a permanent effort, through trial, error and continuous updating, to get closer to the truth as an absolute concept.
At a time when lies and manipulation have become business models, quality journalism is one of the last institutions capable of rebuilding the common space where society recognizes itself. And, in this way, we contribute to ensuring that there continues to be a cement that unites us.
At Diário de Notícias, we are aware of the enormous challenge and colossal responsibility that underlie our mission. We will continue to do our work and, to this end, we ask for the support of all our readers, partners and advertisers, whom we thank for their trust and preference throughout these incredible 161 years of life.
Director of News Diary
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