What is Truth?

The pursuit of truth is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, yet its definition remains elusive and contentious. Some argue that truth is subjective, shaped by personal perspectives and experiences. Others maintain that truth is absolute, grounded in objective reality. Can truth be both subjective and absolute simultaneously? To navigate this complex question, we must first define what truth is.

Truth can be defined as a fact backed by provable evidence. It is not a theory, hypothesis, or educated guess supported by personal beliefs. Absolute truth, in this context, is characterized by evidence that is universally accepted and verifiable. However, this definition raises further questions: Can truth, seemingly absolute, be fallible? Is truth malleable, capable of being molded to appear absolute while being inherently subjective?

Religions around the world each claim to possess absolute truth. If any one religion's worldview were truly absolute, why then do hundreds of thousands of various religious and philosophical opinions exist? This diversity suggests that what is considered absolute truth in one context may not be universally accepted as such.

Science strives to establish absolutes concerning the mechanical workings of the universe. Yet, even within the scientific community, consensus is often elusive. New discoveries and evidence continually challenge and refine our understanding, suggesting that scientific truths are provisional and subject to revision.

Revisiting our definition, truth backed by provable evidence, while appearing absolute, is ultimately subjective. This notion is contentious. However, it highlights that truth regarding most subjects or trains of thought can be both absolute and subjective. 

Consider the concept of death. Many argue that death is an absolute truth, a fundamental part of the life cycle. However, interpretations of death vary across cultures and religions. In some Eastern religions, death is viewed as a rebirth. In Christianity, death is seen as a transition to an eternal existence. These differing perspectives illustrate that what is considered an absolute truth in one context may be viewed differently in another.

Can humans ever truly know absolute truth? This question remains unanswered. Some may see this as a nihilistic worldview, asserting that nothing can be known for certain. However, this perspective is itself paradoxical, as it claims to know the nature of knowledge and existence. To claim that nothing can be known requires a foundation of something existing to contrast with nothingness.

In essence, truth for one person could be a falsehood for someone else. Personal beliefs, shaped by environment, culture, and society, heavily influence our perception of truth. Consequently, truth can never be unequivocally and unbiasedly defined. It is absolute only in the eyes of the individual who believes in their version of truth.

In conclusion, truth is both absolute and subjective. It is shaped by evidence and consensus but also influenced by personal and cultural perspectives. Understanding this dual nature of truth allows us to appreciate the complexity of human knowledge and the diversity of worldviews.