Failure to distinguish between opinion and fact

The problem is that increasingly, no distinctions are being made between opinions and facts, and between sound arguments and those that mere sound good. Slowly the crucial distinction between what is true and what is not gets lost. The danger is that of a completely relativistic universe in which all theories – however reprehensible or preposterous – must be accorded respect, a universe in which truths are replaced by opinions.

The most obvious evidence of the problem is the replacement of the phrase "I think" with "I feel". There is no obligation on the person who makes the first statement to defend it.

1. Fact is solidified opinion.

2. Facts may weaken under extreme heat and pressure.

3. Truth is elastic.

1. Inappropriate arguments

1. Selective perception of facts
2. Scientific explanations of phenomena
3. Questionable facts
4. Personal misperceptions
5. Exaggeration
6. Disruptive personal prejudices
7. Cancel culture

1. Erosion of social dialogue
2. Boasting
3. Data smog

1. Relativism

1. Distinguishing between opinion and fact

1. Failure