The Trouble With Observations

"People will generally accept facts as truth only if the facts agree with what they already believe."
Andy Rooney

Observations of truths are often adversely influenced by beliefs. In other words, beliefs can, and sometimes do, distort our observations of what "is" to suit our beliefs. Take, for example, the famous case of "flying horses".

Before the advent of motion photography, paintings of horses demonstrated a belief that the legs of running horses were splayed at the moment all four hooves were off the ground.


Motion photography "corrected" this belief to show just the opposite was true. We now have knowledge — a belief based on accurate observation and sound reasoning — of this "is".


Accordingly, the observations of witnesses have proven over and over to be the most unreliable "evidence" in many legal trials at court.

And, in the modern political climate, similar irrational distortions in observation and interpretation give rise to a plethora of "talking heads" who haven't a clue of what "is". And, unlike those in the scientific community who adjust their beliefs to suit truths, this behavior leads to "don't confuse me with the facts" cults of absurdity.

Yes, Rush, I'm talking about you and your ilk!