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L.Kelly-Bowditch's picture

Truth vs. truth?

In Tuesday's class, we discussed the distinctions between Truth and truth, or if they existed at all. I maintain that universal truths, whether they be "T" or "t", if they exist at all, barely matter given the different ways in which people perceive them. Historical events were brought up as an example of Truths, as an event can only happen one way. But I think that description is lacking as it ignores intentions, motivations, etc.

For example, a house fire is a house fire. Perhaps a lit cigarette started it. Assuming for a moment that there was no investigation, the resulting event is exactly the same whether it was dropped accidentally or deliberately. However, an accidental fire would result in very different emotions, reactions, etc. than arson.

I think that while that is a very simplistic example, others, such as the Holocaust (the example from class), can be looked at through a similar lens. We can determine an event happened, but can we ever actually know the Truth of it?

In looking at evolution, particularly Dennett's approach, I think it is important to remember the subjectivity involved. It's like a game of telephone, no matter how carefully you repeat what you heard, over time, things will change.

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