In what ways do alternative realities shape not only public perceptions but also influence societal values, norms, and belief systems, and what are the long-term implications for democratic resilience and cultural cohesion?

Alternative realities refer to self-contained belief systems in which individuals or groups reject verified facts and instead adopt a distorted or fabricated version of reality that aligns with their ideological, emotional, or social identities. These realities are sustained by selective exposure to information, echo chambers, and the rejection of credible sources, creating a worldview that feels internally consistent but is disconnected from objective truth.