In "The Year of the Flood" by Margaret Atwood, the narrative highlights the confusion surrounding information in the digital age. The Internet is portrayed as a chaotic mix of true and false information, leading to a general distrust among users. As a consequence, people are unable to discern credible sources from unreliable ones. This saturation of conflicting messages results in a societal dilemma where individuals either disregard online information entirely or accept everything without skepticism.
This lack of reliable information fosters a sense of ambiguity and misinformation. As the characters navigate through this tangled web of facts and fabrications, their perceptions and beliefs are fundamentally shaped by the unpredictable nature of online content. The quote suggests that the overwhelming diversity of opinions and misleading data makes critical thinking a challenge for many, reflecting a broader commentary on information consumption in contemporary society.