Negotiating Truth in a Hyperreal World Interreligious Relations in the Digital Age

Abstract

In the post-truth era, the pursuit of objective truth has diminished, replaced by multiple alternative truths. As a consequence, societies lose the opportunity to share a common understanding of reality, leading to fragmented groups with competing perspectives. Drawing on the concept of hyperreality proposed by Jean Baudrillard, this paper examines how social actors construct and circulate certain ideas as “reality,” often generating a sense of urgency that demands immediate response. Focusing on the issue of proselytization – especially the perception of Christian initiatives both in political participation and social engagement among Muslims – this study argues that these dynamics often culminate in the politization of religion. This, in turn, contributes to the restriction of interreligious relation. In the context of rapid explosion of the digital era and artificial intelligence, these tendencies are increasingly amplified, producing forms of hyperreality that blur the boundaries genuine civic participation, social service and suspected religious agendas. The article further explores the theological implications of these developments, particularly in light of the call of Pope Francis, to promote dialogue and to reaffirm shared humanity as the foundation of human identity.