What Is Real Truth?

Summary

In this insightful talk, Father Mike Schmitz explores the fundamental question of truth, differentiating between subjective and objective truths. He emphasizes that subjective truths reflect personal preferences, while objective truths exist independently of individual beliefs. Through engaging examples, he illustrates the necessity of recognizing objective truths in discourse and disagreement, asserting that truth must be consistent and can’t contradict itself. Ultimately, he calls for a philosophical approach to understanding truth that transcends personal opinions, encouraging viewers to seek what is true in their lives.

Takeaways

• 😀 The big philosophical question to address is: What is truth? This is essential for anyone seeking knowledge and wisdom.
• 😀 Truth can be simply defined as 'what is,' meaning a statement is true or false based on its conformity to reality.
• 😀 Subjective truths are personal and vary from person to person, such as preferences like 'I prefer caribou coffee over Starbucks.'
• 😀 If everything were subjective truth, we would only have three ways to resolve disagreements: mob rule, might makes right, or separation.
• 😀 Objective truth exists and is independent of individual belief or feelings. A statement about reality can be true or false, regardless of what we think about it.
• 😀 Objective statements are true whether we know them, like them, or believe them. For example, the speed limit on a road is 30 mph regardless of personal knowledge.
• 😀 The principle of non-contradiction is crucial: something cannot both be and not be at the same time and in the same way.
• 😀 Subjective truth is about the subject (the person speaking), while objective truth is about the object (an external fact or reality).
• 😀 Disagreements over objective truths cannot be settled by opinion alone, as these truths are independent of personal beliefs or preferences.
• 😀 In religious discussions, like whether God exists or Jesus is God, objective truth must be considered. A claim like 'Jesus is God' cannot be both true and false at the same time.
• 😀 The pursuit of truth is the foundation of clear thinking and philosophy. Acknowledging objective truth helps navigate complex questions of existence, faith, and morality.

Q & A

What is the central question Father Mike Schmitz discusses in the video?

The central question discussed is 'What is truth?'

How does Father Mike Schmitz define truth?

He defines truth simply as 'what is,' meaning a statement is true or false based on its conformity to reality.

What is the difference between subjective truth and objective truth?

Subjective truth is based on personal preferences and beliefs, while objective truth refers to statements that are true or false regardless of individual opinions.

Can you give an example of subjective truth?

An example of subjective truth is saying 'I prefer coffee from Caribou to Starbucks.' This is a personal preference.

What are the three options available when only subjective truths are acknowledged?

The three options are mob rule, might makes right, and disengagement from the conversation.

What does Father Mike say about the importance of objective truth?

He emphasizes that objective truth exists independently of personal beliefs and is essential for meaningful discussions.

What is the principle of non-contradiction?

The principle states that something cannot both be and not be at the same time and in the same way.

How does Father Mike Schmitz apply the concept of objective truth to religious beliefs?

He asserts that statements about God, like 'Jesus is God,' cannot be both true and false simultaneously; they must be evaluated objectively.

Why is it important to recognize both subjective and objective truths?

Recognizing both allows for personal expression while also grounding discussions in a reality that transcends individual opinions.

What is the overall goal of the discussions on Father Mike’s channel?

The goal is to explore and discern what is objectively true to guide one's life and beliefs accordingly.