Thinking vs. Knowing


If you have ever watched the popular TV series CSI, you know that the investigators on the show rely heavily on evidence to prove their theories and solve their cases. What does this mean? It means that before they point any fingers, they use scientific proof to justify their claims.
As a viewer, you may have an opinion as to who committed the crime in question-that is, you may believe one character over another. But according to the crime scene investigators, who did what and when is a matter of fact. That is, with enough evidence, they do not believe-they know-because they can prove it..

Now, let's define fact and opinion.

Facts are:

• Things known for certain to have happened
• Things known for certain to be true
• Things known for certain to exist

Opinions, on the other hand, are:

• Things believed to have happened
• Things believed to be true
• Things believed to exist

Essentially, the difference between fact and opinion is the difference between believing and knowing. Opinions may be based on facts, but they are still what we think, not what we know. Opinions are debatable; facts are usually are not. A good test for whether something is a fact or opinion is to ask yourself, "Can this statement be debated? Is this known for certain to be true?" If you can answer yes to the second, you have a fact. If you are not sure, then it is best to assume that it is an opinion until you can verify that it is indeed a fact.

Why the Difference between Fact and Opinion Is Important?

When you are making decisions, it is important to be able to distinguish between fact and opinion-between what you or others believe and what you or others know to be true. When you make decisions, assess others'arguments, and support your own arguments, use facts, as they generally carry more weight that opinions.