Extemporaneous musings, occasionally poetic, about life in its richly varied dimensions, especially as relates to history, theology, law, literature, science, by one who is an attorney, ordained minister, historian, writer, and African American.
Thursday, January 4, 2018
FACTS & OPINIONS
FACTS AND OPINIONS
A simple recitation of facts is more effective that a clutch of opinions , or opinions mixed with with facts.
Facts are difficult to gather. They often require time and energy to research, sometimes money. It is reasonable to ask what is a fact?
A fact is an assertion proven true. Assertions are statements that are proven by probative evidence; that is demonstrably reliable evidence.
Such evidence It can consists of numbers, charts , drawings, specimens, photos, witnesses, impacts on a given environment , oaths, admissions in certain cases.
An opinion, by contrast, is not an assertion that needs to be proven; or supported by evidence; whose reliability leaves much to desired, when opinion is compared to facts .
Too much opinion and too few facts have been the downfall of many people. This can come about due to an undue reliance on the speaker or writer. It may be due to haste, desperation , negligence or simply sloth or mental incapacity.
One must know some facts to know other facts . Knowledge helps , always. So does proof. Do not be offended when someone says "google," when responding . Such a statement is encouraging you to seek proof of an assertion.
Proof of facts adds to your own knowledge base, empowering you, helping you, enriching you. When someone says, "believe me," grab your purse, your wallet, loved ones , as you are then dependent on the graces of man, not of God.