“The real truth about wolves”: Political ecology of wildlife conservation in the post-truth era

Abstract

Using a political ecology lens, this paper examines the impact of the post-truth era on wolf conservation debates in Finland. Based on ethnographic fieldwork in Lieksa, and analysis of discussions in two Facebook groups focused on large carnivores from 2018 to 2023, it reveals a fundamental concern for the future of rural life and traditions. Critics of wolf conservation, while distrusting of conservation scientists, mimic scientific language and official data to convey their perceptions of the “real truth about wolves”. Such post-truth strategies, along with rumours and conspiracy theories, provide means to criticize conservation practices, but also exemplify power struggles over wildlife management. In essence, this paper posits that post-truth can be seen as a response to a post-political society where environmental governance is based on “objective” science, bypassing diverse value-laden nature relations. The study underscores the need for political dialogue to address the post-truth era’s challenges.