Is it hopeless?

Has misinformation infiltrated so deeply before in our history? It seems to me that most people in the past were busy living their lives and left politics to the few. But due to the expanse of cable news and social media over the last couple of decades, more and more people have strong political opinions. One would think that having more people knowledgeable and involved in our political process would be good for our democracy, but it is not because many have been infected by misinformation which is sadly destroying our democracy.

Rumors and unsubstantiated claims have become gospel for many who reject the truth. No amount of real evidence will change their minds. People are making decisions based on the misinformation that are bad for their own well being. For me it’s like watching a friend walk toward the edge of a cliff blindfolded, ignoring my frantic pleas to stop, while they happily listen to the evil liar saying keep going, keep going…

Right now I am feeling hopeless, but is it?