What is “truth?”

 

The term “truth“ actually follows us in our everyday life. I always thought that I'd understand this short word. But have you ever before dealt with the profound and true (seems so awkward in this context) meaning of truth? How can we define it and how can we be sure if something is true?

In short, the truth is a permanent fact or reality that is valid and correct for everyone without any time limitation.

Too confusing? Here's a simple example:

For along time, people believed that the earth was flat. Why isn't that true? Well, more than 2.500 years ago, the Greek philosopher Plato drew his conclusions about the earth's spherical shape, as he observed ships leaving the harbour. First, the hull, then the sails and lastly the top of the mast disappeared.

With the help of mathematical calculations and scientific insights, we now have evidence, that the earth is a sphere. Everyone of us has access on the corresponding data, images, videos. As we all live on this planet, it is a truth for the global population and the whole universe.

How I find the truth

In my work as a journalist, it is essential to represent reality in a neutral way. To combine fairness, respect of the human dignity, impartiality and incorruptibility. I do cross checking to compare different data and find their communalities, which I then declare as the truth.

While working outside, I always try to understand and see with my own eyes what the opposite person is talking about. Using the proper questions helps to get to the bottom of a topic, to find contradictions and question them. Another essentiel point is the exchange with other journalists. Do they have the same information as I do?

Journalism and the truth

The internet offers a lot of information. In the “data supermarket”, you'll find the shelf with scientific facts immediately next to disinformation, myths, conspiracy theories and alternative facts. For the reader, as well for the journalist, it is hard to find the truth. And as alternative facts are growing and social media is offering more and more space for plots, journalists are often confronted with accusations, insults and denial. Even though we are revealing our sources and offer the potential for discussion.

What does “truth” mean for you? In which situations are you confronted with problems to find the truth?