Slander, Lies, and Post-Truth: from the Renaissance to the Present (Q9120)
15 credits, Level 5
Autumn teaching
This module explores the status of knowledge and truth, facts and expertise in a contemporary world where the status of ‘truth’ is often contested and embattled.
You will explore the relationship between values, beliefs and facts through a series of analytical engagements with topics and case studies, treated both historically and comparatively and drawn from a variety of disciplinary contexts.
You will focus on some or all of the following:
- language use by contemporary politicians
- witch hunts in early modern Europe and modern America
- pandemic management in West Africa;
- reading in the digital age
- social media and conspiracy theories.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses: