So how do you tell if the truth is being told?

I work on one extremely simple thing and that's you beenshit, if you believe it then its BS and if you disbelieve it then it must be true.

Has worked for me for years

There is nothing more stupid than collective mindsets. Those who trust in the majority, media and what they follow...ie an example, the status quo, political correctness etc.

If masses are right ,why is it then that only a mere 2-5% of people in affluent societies  are financially independent at old age . A very obvious folly, despite the obvious. If you cannot look after yourself and loved ones who is supposed to...the state ,others?

Those who believe the media, those who believe what is accepted by the masses. 

Rather open yourself to learn the obvious first and then explore deeper, think deeper and be honest with intelligent observation. Don't be a blind follower with your eyes shut.:

“Truth always rests with the minority … because the minority is generally formed by those who really have an opinion, while the strength of a majority is illusory, formed by the gangs who have no opinion.”

Kierkegaard on Nonconformity, the Individual vs. the Crowd, and the Power of the Minority – Brain Pickings

Voltaire said : that he would rather be ruled by 1 Lion than a 100 Rats.

So called collective thought is more damn stupid than anything and it makes the masses vulnerable to every manipulation by those with sinister intent.

That's why socialism and it's  more evil extremity, communism leads to anarchy...the world today is a huge mess and the majority is so blind to see it. Like lemminsgs following each other over the cliff face.