A Pedlar a Prig and a Dolt

Is there any virtue in telling true stories as opposed to false ones? Why do news more and more often read/look like (clumsily) planned ad campaigns or third-rate reality shows? Why does emphasis invariably seem to fall on tides of emotion (both positive and negative, to praise or to blame) that play center-stage whereas truth, veracity, statistical probability and plausibility are by far not necessary ingredients and are -in all cases- superseded by 'emotional truth'? Does this go back to the very core of the human mind, to 'neuralgic points' whose stimulation invariably guarantees a given knee-jerk reaction? Do ageold myths play any role in this? Many ancient myths, mythical figures and their contemporary variations are mentioned: the hero's journey; the meek, persecuted, rejected and slain/crucified savior-god-hero, and so forth. The concept of “pseudo-sanctity” is introduced; the pliable nature of myth from the dawn of time is explored.