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5 years ago in History of Philosophy By Jiten

Is there a meaningful difference in credibility between written and oral communication?

 This question pushes past methodological concerns to a deeper epistemological problem I grapple with. If both forms are constructed and can be deceptive, does the medium itself carry any essential weight regarding truth, or is credibility entirely contingent on external factors?

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By AnthonyEngix Answered 6 months ago

Based on my interdisciplinary work, I’ve concluded there is no inherent credibility in either medium. The difference is phenomenological and social. Writing objectifies thought, making it easier to reify as truth. Orality is fluid and embedded in relationship. I would recommend focusing on the dynamics of credibility: it is always conferred by a community based on agreed-upon rules of evidence, power structures, and the perceived integrity of the messenger, not the message’s container. The medium shapes, but does not determine, the perception of truth.

   

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