Etika Epistemik dalam Perang Informasi: Analisis Filosofis terhadap Pembentukan Persepsi Publik pada Konflik Perbatasan Thailand–Kamboja

Abstract

This study examines the role of epistemic ethics in information warfare, focusing on the formation of public perception in the Thailand–Cambodia border conflict, which re-escalated in 2025. The conflict has unfolded not only within the physical space of the border region but has also expanded into the information sphere, social media, and strategic communication involving states, media institutions, academics, and digital users. In conflict situations, information, rumors, fake news, selective presentation of facts, and nationalist narratives can significantly influence public emotions, levels of trust in state institutions, and societal attitudes toward opposing parties. Therefore, the central issue extends beyond merely determining which information is true or false; it also raises philosophical questions concerning what deserves to be believed, on what grounds such beliefs are justified, and who bears responsibility for the production and dissemination of truth. This study employs a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach through literature review, content analysis, framing analysis, and SWOT analysis. The findings indicate that information warfare shapes public perception through four primary mechanisms: the framing of event meanings, the mobilization of nationalist emotions, the simplification of conflict realities into “us versus them” binaries, and the erosion of trust in official sources. This study argues that strengthening public epistemic ethics is a critical prerequisite for information resilience and national cognitive resilience.