Forum Post: Truth, How to Recognize it & Why it's Imperative

Identifying what is true is often difficult, but it's possible if people learn the difference between fact and opinion.

So how can someone differentiate between opinion and fact? Although it seems this would be simple, it isn’t, mainly because politicians, church leaders, writers, newscasters, talk-radio personalities, and even parents and friends often appear to be stating a fact when they are instead stating an opinion, which is a personal belief that is emotional, biased, and often totally unfounded.

Some people argue that one can know something is true and, therefore, not an opinion, if it is supported by credible reasons and evidence. The problem with this argument, according to Joseph Campbell, noted philosopher and author of such esteemed works as The Power of Myth, is that each truth is relevant in its own time.

What Campbell means is that what is accepted as fact and, therefore, truth can change because the reasons and evidence offered in support of that fact have changed, and when reasons and evidence cease to be valid, they lose their credibility. As a result, what was once true becomes untrue.

I welcome all posters to dive into this very important subject. As we explore ideas here in this forum I would suggest that it is of utmost importance that each one of us seek the truth honestly and with respect for others opinions.

We are entitled to our own opinions but not to our own facts. This where all of us should work harder. The reward for the hard work will be worth it. Most times when there's two sides to a situation, especially when the sides are exactly diametrically opposed, one side is right. We will know the right side by the Truth.

Good LUCK !!! : )