In a recent talk in Cartagena de Indias, Colombian author Juan Gabriel Vásquez expressed deep concern about the state of reality in today's society, asserting that social media has obliterated the concept of a shared reality. He stated that the influence of social platforms has rendered reality a non-existent notion, and he fears that the rise of artificial intelligence will exacerbate this disintegration. Vásquez, known for his acclaimed novel "El ruido de las cosas al caer," warned that these changes pose significant risks to the authenticity of communication and perception in contemporary life.

Vásquez participated in a panel discussion celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Spanish newspaper El País, where he serves as a columnist. During the event, he called for a renewed awareness regarding the essential role of journalism, describing it as a vital space for resistance against the prevailing fragmentation of reality. He highlighted the growing necessity for journalism to serve as a bastion against manipulation and misinformation, underscoring the critical nature of its role in preserving a coherent understanding of truth amid chaotic information streams.

His remarks resonate with widespread worries about the implications of digital communication and artificial intelligence not just on personal perceptions, but also on collective understanding. Vásquez's call to action emphasizes the responsibility of journalists to uphold integrity and ethical standards in reporting, particularly when faced with the rapid evolution of technology that can distort or obscure reality. The implications extend beyond individual interpretations, reflecting a broader societal dilemma about authenticity and truth in the age of information overload.