
The Hague Diplomacy Podcast Episode 2: Damien Arnaud on the Impact of Post-Truth on International Cooperation and Security
Apr 28, 2020
Damien Arnaud, a former NATO official and public diplomacy expert, explores the detrimental effects of post-truth on international cooperation. He discusses how misinformation undermines political dialogue, particularly in security matters, and connects it to the rise of social media. With insights from senior officials, Damien explains the historical roots of post-truth and emphasizes the necessity of restoring genuine dialogue. He urges listeners to break free from informational bubbles, stressing that critical engagement is vital for a shared reality and global stability.
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Post-Truth Defined And Rooted
- Post-truth means objective facts matter less than emotion and belief, not just lying.
- Damien Arnaud traced its rise from cultural fatigue to a deeper devaluation of truth-seeking.
Tech Amplified A Longstanding Trend
- Post-truth built on older political practices but was amplified by social media and tech platforms.
- Damien argues 2016 marked widespread awareness, not sudden origin of the phenomenon.
Political Dialogue Is Informational
- Political dialogue is informational and distinct from performative diplomacy or cooperative security.
- Arnaud frames dialogue as mapping others' views to ground one's own assessments.

