Objectivity is often seen as a pillar of truth. People who pride themselves on this principle strive to approach every situation, individual, or idea without bias, allowing facts to lead their conclusions. For many who commit to this mindset, the goal is not to praise or disparage but to observe, assess, and respond based on what is demonstrably true. It is a noble way of interacting with the world, one that attempts to rise above the noise of personal agendas or emotional reactions.
But adhering to facts alone can sometimes lead to a mistaken belief: that others, or even society at large, also behave this way. At one point in life, I thought society operated under this same principle of factual reasoning. I believed people would examine evidence before jumping to conclusions and that praise or criticism would be rooted in objective reality. Unfortunately, as time went on, I realized this was not the case.
The Disparity Between Idealism and Reality
In a world where information is readily accessible, it seems like a reasonable expectation that society would collectively value facts. However, much of what drives human behavior is more emotional and subjective than logical. Personal biases, cultural influences, and social pressures often cloud the judgment of individuals and groups alike. Praise and criticism are frequently given not based on truth but on how people feel, how much they align with someone’s values, or the potential for personal gain.
This realization can be disheartening. I once thought that the factual approach I took was the norm, that society, too, rewarded accuracy and fairness. But I soon observed that facts could be twisted, ignored, or selectively chosen to fit narratives. People, it seemed, were often more interested in validation and approval than truth. Praise was given for popularity, influence, or alignment with the majority, while criticism came swiftly for those who dared to challenge the status quo.
The Challenge of Sticking to Facts
It can be lonely adhering to facts in a world where emotion often trumps reason. The temptation to follow the crowd or offer praise or disparagement based on popular opinion is strong, but remaining grounded in the truth requires commitment. It is essential to understand that just because society may not behave the way we hoped or believed, that doesn’t mean adhering to facts is any less valuable.
Sticking to facts doesn’t guarantee societal approval. In fact, it can sometimes lead to isolation or criticism. However, it also provides a level of consistency and authenticity that is increasingly rare. In a world filled with misinformation and emotional reactions, being someone who bases their judgments solely on facts can be a source of integrity and trust.
The Value of Facts in an Emotional Society
Even though society may not always adhere to facts, that doesn’t mean they hold no value. In fact, those who stick to facts become crucial in navigating a world where emotions and opinions dominate. By maintaining objectivity, we can provide balance, offering a perspective that is free from personal bias and rooted in reality.
Though society may not behave the way I once believed, the importance of adhering to facts remains unchanged. The truth may not always be praised, but it stands the test of time. By focusing on facts rather than emotional praise or disparagement, we help create a more honest, reflective world—even if others don’t always follow suit.
