Question the Source.
A fact is something known to be true an opinion is something said by someone it could be true or false.
An opinion is what someone thinks. It could be incorrect because they were misinformed or are deliberately lying to influence you.
Question, have they an ulterior motive? Who is this person, can they be trusted, what are their qualifications and are they in a rational state of mind?
Assumptions and opinions can cause stress. Stress creates strong emotions and emotions strengthen our opinions. Someone walks past me in the street without speaking. Do I think, this person does not like me? This is not a fact; the fact is ‘they walked past me.’ It could be they did not see me. Knowing the facts helps us make wise unemotional decisions. We should ascertain if it is a fact, opinion, fiction, rumour, speculation or a lie before making a decision.
It may not be a proven fact and could be an opinion. There are verifiable opinions, expert opinions and personal opinions. A Verifiable opinion is valid. An expert opinion is made by a person that has studied the subject and is an authority. A personal opinion, what a person believes is governed by his values, beliefs and emotions. We must ask where did this statement come from, did it come from the media? Then ask who owns the media, who has vested interest in these stories? An editor earns his living doing what the person in charge wants and he will be out of a job if he goes against the boss.
We need to think seriously about this because people like Rupert Murdoch own the media; you have to be sceptical when you know his history. It is interesting reading, though he would rather you read his newspaper or watch a soap opera on TV than read up on Wikipedia. This is an outline of what you will read on Wikipedia about him.
He inherited News Corporation, the second largest media conglomerate. He has been accused of hacking the phones of celebrities, royalty and the public. Refer to the Leveson Enquiry. He faced police and government investigation for bribery and corruption by the British Government and US FBI. He has a history of biased political support. If you like a love story there is something for you he has had three wives. The truth is hard to ascertain when we blithely listen to comment from the media.
There have been many distortions of the truth. I was told to fear people who are now our friends and trading partners. Any source of information that uses advertising to finance its operation is to be questioned. Do not believe all you see and hear no matter where it came from. Although this is my personal opinion, as I am not on anyone’s pay-roll. You should still question it, by searching out the facts from a reliable source.
All valid points Jack
Thanks Pauline, I know I am right when you agree with me.
Good points and that bird is awesome! ❤
Just things I think we need to stay aware of.
Most birds come to me but untamed White Cockatoos are a bit wary.
He landed on my shoulder with the help of Photoshop.
So, are you saying that the mainstream media does not provide us with an unvarnished, neutral news perspective? I am quite horrified. 😉
No I am saying do not accept with out question.
Any thing you read or hear you should unemotionally and logically assess.
Jack, the wink ( 😉 ) was added, along with my second sentence, to denote irony on my part.
Yes Hariod, I thought that was how your comment was meant.
I wanted to make sure I had it right as your comments are appreciated.
Most people that read my blog are better educated than I am and do not need my jottings to inform them, I am the one that needs their help.
I suspect you are being a little self-effacing Jack. Now, as to your parrot, you say that “he repeats anything he hears” is that really so, can he/she mimic most words?
In captivity they can be taught to say words that are repeater to them and dance and do other simple tricks.
nice post, jack, and a little bit different than most… good for you for giving some of us a gentle shake!
z
Thanks, I think a hug would be nicer Lisa.
that first photo – huge smile because you too match – the hair and the feel – ha! and is that santa claus in the “respect” photo? looks like he is chilling out 😉
Yes it is not a Mohawk hair-do.
It is more a Cockatoo hair-do.
Most Aboriginals are gentle and relaxed.
He made me welcome in his humble camp.
In the course of our conversation he mentioned he was out of fire wood or would make me a cup of tea.
I asked where he got the wood from.
He said he had to buy it and cost a lot.
I took the hint because he was a likeable bloke.
cool name…Cockatoo hair-do!!!
and I like that “bloke” word” 🙂
If is our Aussie equivalent to guy.
I am an old timer so like to keep our colloquial expressions alive.
Steve Irwin was a fair dinkum bloke and crikey he was popular with Uncle Sam.😍🐨
Hi Jack – well I also want dot just note that I REALLY loved your wisdom here too – because there are some unethical people in very powerful spots and well, loved this:
“Do not believe all you see and hear no matter where it came from. Although this is my personal opinion, as I am not on anyone’s pay-roll. You should still question it, by searching out the facts from a reliable source.”
Jack I always like the way you present deep thinking posts which ask the reader to make up their own minds.. Yet you point us in directions of Truth.. would those who care to uncover them can easily find…
We should all of us be looking to Question.. and ALL of us be prepared for the Answers.. Answers which often lead us right back to our own choices..
Loved your photo’s and your choice of them went excellently with the content of your post..
Keep helping us see clearer Jack.. as those Questions will always arise
_/\_ Sue
Your words are encouraging words Sue.
I try to spread what I believe is needed to help improve our understanding.
It is a very small contribution but combined with others spreading love and peace, it can perhaps do some good.
I appreciate all the effort you put into your blog to enlighten people. _/\_