The Uncertainty of Documentarism by Hito Steyerl

This time, we were asked to read the passage and answer the following questions: 

• Steyerl talks about how the “unbroken belief” of the documentary form is challenged. What does Steyerl mean by this? Certain movies and films are based on a true story.  How does truth inform fiction? How might fiction inform the truth?
• What is the significance of the authenticity and representation of the truth in the media that you consume on a daily basis? What is the role of a live broadcast?

 

For the first question “what does Steyerl mean by the “unbroken belief” of the documentary form being challenged”. Steyerl suggests that there was a time when the documentary form was widely trusted and believed to accurately represent reality. This trust was based on the assumption that documentary images provided objective and reliable accounts of events. However, the proliferation of low-resolution, abstract, emotionally charged images, as well as the prevalence of media manipulation and biases, has eroded the unbroken belief in the documentary form’s ability to faithfully represent reality.

So how does truth inform fiction? Steyerl emphasized that truth can serve as a foundation or inspiration for fictional works. Real events actually can provide the basis for fictional narratives. Authors and filmmakers often draw from real-life experiences, adding authenticity and depth to their fictional creations. By incorporating elements of truth, fiction can explore the complexities of human experiences and engage with real-world issues.

Here comes the third question, “How might fiction inform the truth?”. Fiction has the capacity to shed light on truth by exploring hypothetical scenarios, highlighting underlying social or political issues. Through imaginative narratives, fiction can offer insights into the human condition, challenge established norms and beliefs, and encourage critical thinking. It can provide alternative perspectives, envoke empathy, and raise awareness of certain truths or perspectives that may not be easily conveyed through straightforward factual accounts.

We may wonder “What is the significance of the authenticity and representation of truth in the media consumed on a daily basis”. Steyerl discussed that the authenticity and representation of truth in the media are significant because they directly impact our understanding of the world and shape public opinion. When consuming media, people often seek accuracy, reliability, and credibility. The authenticity of information and its alignment with reality are crucial for fostering public trust. Media that accurately represents truth can contribute to a well-informed society.

Last but not least, what is the role of a live broadcast? Live broadcasts play a critical role in delivering immediate and real-time information to audiences. They provide a sense of immediacy and directness, allowing viewers to experience events as they unfold. However, it is important to approach live broadcasts critically, considering potential biases or limitations and verifying information through multiple sources.