The Principles of Finding Truth

What

The “Principles of Finding Truth” refer to the core set of beliefs and actions that help a person consistently gain an accurate view of reality (AVR).

Analysis: Here is a breakdown of the main ideas in this definition.

Principle

A principle is a fundamental belief or guideline that consistently leads to great results.

Truth

Something is true if it corresponds to the way things are.

Accurate View of Reality

An accurate view of reality refers to an understanding of a topic that aligns with the way things really are because it is based on evidence and reasoning.

The Principles

  1. Figuring out what is right (correct) is far more important than being right. I can and I will change my beliefs in the face of better evidence.

  2. Be open to new ideas and new evidence and alternative points of view, especially from those you violently disagree with. Be skeptical of your own beliefs; that is, be your own worst skeptic.

  3. It is acceptable to be wrong. Most of us are wrong many times. However, we strive to be correct by continuously refining our understanding based on evidence.

  4. Regarding methods, get known information from high-quality sources and conduct primary research using rigorous, widely accepted methods. In both cases, triangulate (cross-check multiple independent sources).

  5. Connect everything back to evidence—information that is independently verifiable through direct observation, reliable measurement, or rigorous reasoning.

  6. Most truth cannot be known absolutely. Instead, we speak of degrees of certainty and seek conclusions that have a high probability of being correct based on the best available evidence.

  7. Because humans have evolved to pursue their own goals, much information is biased or inaccurate, as it is often shaped by individuals and groups to serve their own objectives. However, not all information is necessarily biased or inaccurate—some individuals and institutions actively work to minimize bias through rigorous methods like peer review, transparency, and adherence to objective standards.

  8. Actively seek out and learn topics such as critical thinking and fact checking.

  9. It is unethical for an actor (person or group) to use misinformation when they seek to persuade or inform regardless of whether or not they know that misinformation is wrong or misleading. Ethical responsibility includes due diligence in verifying information before sharing or using it to influence others.