Applied Epistemology, Information Overload, and Fake News: Artificial Intelligence, Public Trust, and Democracy

Nima L.M.L.; Galindo B.J.H. · Desde el Sur (2026) · DOI: 10.21142/des-1803-2026-e0071

Resumen

The digital era has transformed the dynamics of knowledge, democratizing access to information while simultaneously increasing the risks of information overload, disinformation, and fake news. These phenomena undermine scientific reliability and the critical autonomy of citizens, particularly given the ambivalent role of artificial intelligence, which is capable of both generating and detecting misinformation. The aim of this article is to examine the main epistemological challenges of digital society through a critical review of classical and contemporary literature. The methodology consisted of a theoretical and reflective analysis grounded in indexed academic sources. The results identify the crisis of truth, informational saturation, and the ethical and technological dilemmas of artificial intelligence. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need for an applied epistemology that integrates tools such as CRAV/CRAAP, while also highlighting digital and media literacy as fundamental strategies to restore public trust, safeguard scientific knowledge, and promote a critical citizenry.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Científica del Sur