Reality and truth have been debated across time and likely never come to a perfect end. Lately, it has been subjected to a rash of manipulation. Human activities, from self-preservation to social order, depend upon the concept. Sometimes truth can simply be assumed, but such altruism is not America today. Thinking caring people need a basis to understand and be at peace with their truth. Since I write truth, here is my quick take on the subject.
Seeking to understand truth can readily delve into all manner of philosophy and ”rocket science”. My simple take is consistent with prevailing deeper analyses and conclusions. Truth is what we perceive and hold as individuals, and also collectively as a culture or society. “We hold these truths to be self-evident…” – such as, I need a nap.
Reality and Truth in the Proverbial Nutshell
Note that we sit in the middle and the onus is on us to think. Notice also how “alternative facts” can be a serious issue. When we reason, we use logic with the aim of arriving at the truth. References to the lost “soul of the nation” take me straight to amoral politics.
Truth is the basis for progressive action
Truth is the property of being in accord with reality, as built on facts, as shaped by our reasoning. This reasoning comes through our hearts and minds and this is the nitty-gritty. This is the competition for “mindshare”, where philosophers, priests, and politicos vie for control. Sometimes these groups work in unhealthy collusion. For example, if democracy is part of the desired truth, church and state must be separate. Journalism has historically been the prime force in shaping truth and keeping democracy strong. But most American “journalism” is no longer independent and is predisposed around polarized political agendas.
The Truth Will Out
William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice
For additional detail on this topic, consider this online resource by Wikiversity, Facing Facts.