Chandigarh, Oct 25: Facts may seem simple, but their interpretation is rarely uniform. A “fact” is generally understood as something objectively verifiable, yet what constitutes a universal fact remains elusive. Even the most seemingly indisputable truths — gravity, the sun rising in the east — gain layers of meaning when filtered through human perception, beliefs, and culture.
Experts say conflicts often arise because humans interpret facts through both thought and emotion. “We don’t just see what happens, we feel what it means,” notes social philosopher Dr. Arvind Mehta. This intertwining of reason and sentiment explains why concepts of right and wrong vary widely across communities and individuals.
For instance, an act considered morally acceptable in one society may be condemned in another. This divergence stems from cultural norms, personal experiences, and even neurological differences in how humans process empathy and logic.
The question then arises: if perception shapes morality, what is the ultimate truth? Philosophers argue that ultimate truth may exist independently of human interpretation, but humans can only grasp it partially, through consensus, reasoning, and shared experience. Until then, the interplay between fact, perception, and belief continues to define the human journey.
“Truth is not just what happens, but how it resonates with us,” Dr. Mehta adds. “Understanding this duality may not end conflicts, but it can help societies navigate them with empathy and dialogue.”
