When we classify writing as fiction, we have no expectation of it being true.
When we classify writing as non-fiction, we have an expectation of it being factual.
The word fiction is overloaded: We use it in two ways:
- Content where it is well understood that the contents are not meant to describe the truth (even if it is mostly truthful). Novels are common examples.
- Something that is simply not true (example: /The politician’s claim that the budget deficit would be eliminated without cutting any public services is pure fiction./)
What then do you call a piece that is written as non-fiction, but is completely riddled with factual errors and manufactured statistics?
Comments
You can view and respond to this post in the Fediverse (e.g. Mastodon), by clicking here. Your comment will then show up here. To reply to a particular comment, click its date.