Finding Truth in Misinformation
Dogmatism vs. Relativism: The Enemies of Truth
We live in an era of nearly infinite information, yet with so many opinions, truth becomes elusive. How do we know what is real and what isn’t? It’s not easy, honestly. Being a free thinker today is almost a high-risk sport. It’s puzzling why this is still the case in our stage of evolution, but critical thinking continues to face two major enemies: dogmatism and relativism.
Dogmatism is the belief that truth is already established and must not be questioned. Whether in religion, politics, or even science, any challenge to established ideas is seen as a threat. Relativism, on the other hand, suggests that truth is subjective and depends on individual perspectives. But in a world where 'everyone has their truth,' doesn’t the very concept of truth become diluted? It’s a complex question. In fact, I’m not even sure if it’s true or not.
What I do know is that we can improve our critical thinking by following these principles:
Always ask "Why?" Question what you were taught. Follow the evidence, not ideology. Challenge words and actions until you reach the root of the argument. But don't fall into nihilism—rely on science and multiple reputable sources. Journalism is a rare art, but it exists. Seek it with the same passion you seek the truth itself.
Don’t seek confirmation—seek refutation. It’s easy to engage with information that reinforces our beliefs. The hard part is actively seeking the opposite and staying open to change. Surround yourself with people who think differently. If you only consume information that confirms your views, you’re living in a bubble.
Changing your mind is a victory. If you realize you were wrong about something and adjust your stance, you’ve gained new knowledge, a new perspective, and a new “truth.”
In the end, the real question isn’t What is truth? but What am I willing to do to keep searching for it? It’s a lifelong journey—perhaps even an eternal one—but it’s worth a lifetime.