How do we know?
In the current contentious state of our culture and society and with the seeming lack of any accountability on social media, how do we discern fact from opinion, the accurate thought from the inaccurate?
Is a fact the same thing as a truth? Is truth absolute or relative? Is a fact absolute? Can we know for sure?
Sometimes, does it seem that people do not care about the veracity or accuracy of a statement? Is there only thing that matters, that it supports a particular perspective or point of view?
“Discernment is not simply a matter of telling the difference between right and wrong, rather it is the difference between right and almost right.”–C. H. Spurgeon
How do we find the truth in the midst of this chaotic information overload? What filters are applicable and effective in this process? Is discerning the truth an intellectual, mind-based process? Is it a heart-based process, involving emotions? Is it a gut feeling evaluation relying on intuition? In actuality, do we need multiple filters? Before trying to determine the accuracy of something, would it be of benefit to decide, if it is important and relevant? Does it relate to life priorities? If it is important, do I trust the source or can I research the source? Where does critical thinking fit?
How do you filter what comes into your mind? What factors are most important to you in deciding fact from opinion or from fiction? What helps you decide if the information is worth your attention? Have you developed a habit to take you through the discernment process?
openingyourmindblog 