Information and post-truth politics in the 2018 Mexican electoral process

Abstract

During the electoral process in Mexico in 2018, a large volume of electoral information was produced, distributed and accessed through traditional media, new digital media and social media. Moreover, the audience and followers of social media have increased and exceeded the figures reached in other electoral processes. This election belongs to an era of post-truth politics that is distinguished by the fact that objective facts have less influence on public opinion than emotional messages and personal beliefs. Furthermore, there exists a proliferation of lies, half-truths and unfulfilled promises that only harms democracy. This paper offers a definition of the term, “post-truth” and establishes its relationship with politics. It then focuses on the Mexican 2018 elections, analyzing the use of lies, half-truths and promises during the electoral process. It should be noted that this is not a conclusive study, but rather, part of an ongoing investigation.