The Subjective Point of View: Embracing Personal Truth
Opinions and subjective points of view are often misunderstood. They aren’t inherently true or false; instead, they are shaped by personal experiences and feelings. This is a critical distinction that can impact how we interact with others and with ourselves.
Understanding Subjectivity
Philosophically, opinions can sometimes seem like a black-and-white issue. However, the reality is more nuanced. A professor suggested that opinions are never true, but I tend to see this as a misinterpretation. Opinions are personal perspectives, influenced by individual experiences and impressions. They can be subjective because they are based on personal beliefs that are not always factually verifiable.
For instance, a professional opinion might not always be seen as truly objective due to the bias inherent in personal experiences and the natural human tendency to seek support for one's own beliefs. The challenge lies in distinguishing between a well-researched, fact-based opinion and one that is influenced by personal feelings.
Real-Life Examples of Subjectivity in Action
Consider a situation where an individual, say a lead or manager, presents an opinion backed by personal experience. This can often lead to misunderstanding or confusion. For example:
Example 1:
“I won’t let you guys watch the training video again because I want you guys to be focused during the training session.”
My lead believed that the lack of a second chance to watch the training video would foster greater focus. However, the team felt otherwise, believing that they couldn’t remember every detail from the first viewing and that some team members had missed the session entirely.
The statement, while originating from a subjective viewpoint, highlights how personal convictions can clash with practical realities.
Example 2:
“I think you don’t know what teamwork is you only think about yourself.”
When I challenged my lead's perspective by prioritizing my work over the training, I was met with this subjective critique.
This example underscores the subjective aspect of opinions, where beliefs can be deeply rooted in personal perspectives without objective evidence.
The Importance of Subjectivity in Life
Subjectivity plays a vital role in our lives. It allows us to create a personal narrative and identity. This is particularly relevant for generations that value personal truth over universal facts. In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to construct narratives that cater only to our individual needs and desires. While this can be empowering, it’s essential to balance it with factual understanding to make informed decisions.
Take, for instance, the concept of personal diet. There are various trends and ideologies, some of which may be based on personal experiences or beliefs rather than scientific evidence. Yet, if a particular diet works for an individual, it is a subjective success. It’s this balance between personal truth and objective fact that allows us to navigate life more effectively.
Conclusion
The subjective point of view is not about rejecting objective truths but rather about embracing the complexity of human experience. It allows us to channel our unique perspectives and create meaningful narratives. As millennials and other generations increasingly value personal truth, it becomes crucial to differentiate between subjective opinions and objectively verifiable facts. By doing so, we can make more informed decisions and better navigate the complexities of life.
Final Thoughts
As a millennial, I often say, “Do you bo bo” (Do what works for you). This encapsulates the essence of embracing subjective truths without dismissing the importance of factual accuracy.