Facts vs. Insights

 Facts vs. Insights

    Cambridge Dictionary defines a fact as "something that is known to have happened or to exist, especially something for which proof exists, or about which there is information." A fact is commonly known to provide objective, truthful information about a particular subject. On the other hand, an insight has a similar, but very different definition and use of the term. Cambridge Dictionary also defines an insight as "(the ability to have) a clear, deep, and sometimes sudden understanding of a complicated problem or situation." While an insight is also made up of truthful information, it is not the same as a fact. Insights go beyond the surface level details and "are driven by careful observation, research, and understanding of a particular topic" (Bennett, 2014). First, you need factual information to create insights. In order to tell the difference between a fact and an insight, you will need to focus on the observations, inferences, understanding, and interpretation of both statements. To be more specific, "Observations are information we gather directly through our five senses. Inferences help explain those observations" (Jameson). Despite the confusion between the two, truth plays a big factor in how both words are defined. 

Facts Vs Insights: Thoughtful Businessman Elaborating Creative Thoughts (right Side Of His Brain) And Analytical Ones (his Left Side) Stock Photo, Picture And Royalty Free Image. Image 58373397.

Photo from 123RF

An example to better display the difference between a fact and an insight:

Fact: It is 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Pullman, Washington today.

Insight: The sudden increased temperature in Pullman, Washington has to do with the wildfires spreading South from Spokane earlier this week. The air quality is unhealthy, and people should stay inside to keep cool in the hot heat.


Citations:

Fact. FACT | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary. (n.d.). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/fact 

Insight. INSIGHT | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary. (n.d.). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/insight 

Bennett, M. S. (2014, March 2). What is the difference between a fact and an insight?. The Curious Planner. https://meredithsbennett.wordpress.com/2014/03/02/what-is-the-difference-between-a-fact-and-an-insight/#:~:text=Merriam%2DWebster%20defines%20a%20fact,the%20true%20nature%20of%20something.” 

Jameson, Jordan. "Observations & Inferences" Lecture, Washington State University

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