this post was submitted on 30 Oct 2023
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Privacy
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But a lot of things are facts. You can't say for a fact WW2 started at this date and time, because WW2 itself is just a convenient (though undefined) label for a collection of event's. As you pointed out, you can pick a specific event, and place a factual time and date for it happening though. That would be objective. Or you could factually state that WW2 started in the 20 century, and avoid having to choose any more specific time.
While it might not be possible to be unbiased, it is always possible to be less biased. The way to do that is to understand the difference between facts and judgements, and avoid judgments where ever possible.
I agree sort of. We shouldn’t attempt to be “less biased,” we have to “account for bias.” I know that sounds like I’m just being picky with words, but the semantics really do matter here. It’s why I’m bringing the subject up at all! Awareness of the problem is how we reduce its impact and increases the quality of our work.
I have a bias against certain political ideas. Nothing I do will ever remove that. But if I am transparent about it and find ways to counter balance it when possible, that is incredibly productive. See what I mean?
As for the 20th century example the issue is that’s just too broad to be useful for much meaningful discussion. You’re incredibly limited by that.
I’d also like to point out that I never said there’s no such thing as a fact! “Historical fact” is not “history.” “WWII occurred” is an historical fact. But it’s not history until you discuss the who, what, when, where, why, and how.