Fact or Truth?
We often confuse truth with facts. Yet these are not the same.
Facts may capture certain actions, statistics and numbers. Facts are measurable based on mathematical and economical models.
Truth is deeper and more abstract and greatly subjective to the individual. Truth requires context, connections, reasoning and interpretation. It includes also the underlying intention and individual experience.
Is there an objective truth?
We’ll often hear; “This is an objective or universal truth”.
In my view, there is no such thing as an “objective or universal truth”.
I’ll use the following example to explain my point.
Certain societal conditions, e.g., gender inequality, which are also backed up by empirical and measurable evidence (wage gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, unequal legal rights) are considered unfair by the majority of society.
However, essentially is not an objective truth but rather an objective fact.
Because it’s true that gender inequality, for example, is “unfair” only from the perception of those who experience it or recognize it as such. Many people though don’t register it as unfair. They may not even acknowledge it at all or even think this is absolutely fair.
So, how can we talk about a universal truth when it’s not true for everyone?
Why does this matter?
Perhaps dear reader, you think I am playing with the words here, but I deeply believe truth is an abused and misused word that creates a lot of inner and outer conflict.
Because you see, truth is what we all essentially looking for whether we realize it or not in order to feel safe in this world. We are wired for truth. But we are less aware of the fact that this is “our truth” we are seeking. A truth that is rooted in our unique life experience and individual perception. This truth is our north star, this is our compass for living life on our own terms
But unless we understand how deeply related to our unique perception and life experience “truth” is, we’ll continue arguing, fighting with others or trying to convince or blame them until they accept our truth as theirs.
And that’s a fact…
