Editorial: You Want the Truth? You CAN Handle the Truth!

How do you get your election information in 2025?

In the days before the internet made information easily accessible, if you wanted the answer to your questions, you were reliant on a set of encyclopedias, whatever newspaper was delivered to the house, radio, or news from whatever sources could be picked up by local cable providers or a rooftop antenna.

The world changed when the internet became easily accessible at home, and more so when it became something carried in the palm of your hand, with 24/7 access, push notifications, and the ability to be notified when news breaks.

The internet was supposed to usher in a new era of enlightenment, where anyone, regardless of socio-economic background or geographic restrictions, would be able to connect to the world and find factual information and human connection at the touch of a button.

That vision, however, may have been overly optimistic.

While local media sources are still considered to be the most credible go-to for unbiased reporting, we have all become a bit jaded when it comes to the media. Maybe it’s by endorsing certain political parties, or maybe it’s by providing more time to a favoured candidate; the media provide facts to the best of their abilities but can be hampered by their own beliefs, access to sources, and a desire for ratings, not to mention the occasional unwanted and unsolicited “political pressures” that are sometimes applied.

For those seeking the truth, social media has become a primary news source, at least in the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, more than half of Americans get their news from sources like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and even podcasts, overtaking television broadcasts as the most popular way to find out what is going on in the world.

What happens when we go looking for information online? Search engines work on algorithms that are familiar with your search history. Depending on the keywords for the search, the more likely you are to be presented with results that align with the way you’ve worded the query.

Another option is social media: Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. People often join groups, read posts, or watch short videos in an attempt to find out the facts. But going to sources that align with your opinions is not research; it isn’t hard to find information that meshes with your own worldview.

We are prone to aligning ourselves with sources and opinions of those who agree with us, especially when we believe we are presenting indisputable facts. When our research and social groups confirm our beliefs, it creates an environment where any opinion that differs can be dismissed. This confirmation bias, as defined by the American Psychological Association, is a person’s tendency to look for and interpret information in a way that supports their existing beliefs.

This is not to discredit everything that is on the internet or the opinions of columnists, bloggers, and influencers. Your friends and neighbours most likely share common values and beliefs and can be an excellent resource when it comes to finding information. But to be truly informed, be sure to at least listen to what others say, and challenge yourself by seeking out a different viewpoint.

The Pointe-Claire Record encourages you, in your search for information about the upcoming municipal election, to use every resource at your disposal. Past council meetings are available online and often have an enlightening and lively question period. Candidates for mayor and for councillor will be coming to your homes to speak with you and likely leaving you with reading material. An internet search will help you learn more about the candidates, both personally and professionally. Finally, there are many Facebook groups offering spaces for discussion and debate around Pointe Claire politics; our suggestion is to join them all and expand your perspective.