In today’s world, lots of information is going around. Some information is factual and true. Some information is said to be a fact, but in fact, is just opinion.
Here is some clarification:
What is a Fact?
A thing that is known or proved to be true.
2 + 2 = 4
Can facts be false?
A fact is a statement that can be proven true or false.
I am drinking a glass of water.
Can facts change?
Facts are observations of the world, and they do not change over time.
World War II happened.
How are facts proven?
The usual test for a statement of fact is verifiability – the ability for the fact to be verified.
I worked late last night.
What is an opinion?
An opinion is an expression of a person’s feelings that cannot be proven. Opinions can be based on facts or emotions and sometimes they are meant to deliberately mislead others. You did that on purpose!
What happens when you don’t have the facts?
“If the facts are against you, argue the law. If the law is against you, argue the facts. If the law and the facts are against you, pound the table and yell like hell” – Carl Sandburg
Looks like Carl Sandburg was right, and we’re all seeing lots of yelling and pounding of things lately. That just makes people even more angry and against your cause, whatever it is. Insulting people, destroying someone’s property, name calling, pointing fingers and being belligerent just make everything worse.