On Information Reliability

            We have heard it more than a dozen times: be sure before you speak. But having hearing it for the umpteenth time, does it still make sense, or rather, does it still apply for us today?

            In this age where existed the relative ease of collecting and disseminating information owing to the ever-growing internet and the vast collection of different data within its web, it is now very easy for us to spread wrong information and to induce not only a nationwide but a worldwide confusion. Now, with these in mind the question remains: which is true? which is fallacy?

            Psychologists, when dealing with the truth, would say that truth is based on where you stand—meaning that whatever may be “true” for you may not be true for others. However “true” that is, there would always be that one “original truth”.

            Now, what is “original truth”? That is, in other words, the source. Of course, no matter how distorted the “truth” becomes because of one’s standing, the original truth exists as the genesis—the irreplaceable fountainhead of information.

            Therefore, we, as bloggers must always seek the original truth. We must obtain our information (as much as possible) from the original source—not from mere hearsays, not from rumors or gossips nor from internet sources that anyone can edit. And yes, this means you, Wikipedia.

            But then again, what is gossip? Is it not also a form of information? What are rumors? Are not they the same?

            Though all mentioned are still deemed strictly as forms of information, of course, it would be a matter of little common sense to say that these types of information are not to be used by watchdogs of the truth: Gossip may be true to some extent, but it is spread for ruinous intents. Rumors may also be true, but that’s just about it—they just may be true.

            In this age of inane music and superficial fans of even more shallow pop stars, it would still be a relief to hear that there still exist people who actually do their work properly. And, mind you, I am not only talking of this blog but of others as well and... between you and me, that’s saying something.