The Difference Between Objective and Subjective Reality
The Difference Between Objective and Subjective Reality
There are two realities:
- Objective reality - "the world out there".
- Subjective reality - "the world in here".
1. Objective reality is "existence as such". The world of facts. Independent of anyone's thoughts, opinion or feelings.
Knowledge of objective reality is gained by the five senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell.
2. Subjective reality is the inner world of the mind. The world of emotions and feelings. It is composed of one's own thoughts, opinion and judgements and emotions.
It is important to distinguish between these two worlds and to know which one takes precedence.
The most important thing to remember is: Objective takes precedence over subjective.
Or, to put it more simply, facts trump feelings.
In philosophy, this principle is called, "The primacy of existence".
Consequences of the primacy of existence include:
- The subjective feelings should conform themselves to objective facts.
- Your feelings do not change the facts.
- A refusal to accept a fact, does not make the fact disappear.
- If your theory does not fit the facts, your theory is wrong.
- Before you form an opinion, find the facts.
- Don't form an opinion and THEN look for the facts that will support it, (and suppress or ignore the facts that contradict it).
The opposite and the wrong view is called, "The primacy of consciousness", or more commonly, "Mind over matter".
This erroneous way of thinking is doomed to fail, because the person sets-up his mind and emotions as the primary standard, against which "reality" is measured.
Then the person finds the reality of facts refuses to conform with his subjective desires, and he feels "the universe is all wrong".
Everyone has different opinions, therefore he concludes there are no such things as facts, only opinions and concludes that certain knowledge is impossible.
In physics they called this perpetual self-doubt, "the uncertainty principle".
The world does not comply with their wishes, so they feel depressed.
Points to remember:
Don't believe anyone who says certainty is impossible - ask them if they are sure about that?
Keep your eyes, ears, and mind open.
Always be ready to change your opinion, as you gather more knowledge.
Keep your emotions under control.
Have an outward-looking mind.
Don't waste too much time introspecting.
Say to yourself, "Facts are facts, whether I know them or not, like them or not, agree with them or not. I will base my reactions on the facts, NOT my feelings".
"Ultimately, however, conflict lies not in objective reality, but in people's heads. Truth is simple, one argument - perhaps a good one, perhaps not - for dealing with the difference. The difference itself exists because it exists in their thinking." Martin Luther
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Definition: objective reality
Objective reality is the outer world of facts. It does not rely on what anyone thinks or feels. We learn it through our five senses. It stays the same even if we ignore it, and we should use it to test our ideas and feelings.
Show CG4D Definition
- Exists independent of any person’s mind or feeling
- Can be observed through sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell
- Stays the same whether accepted or denied
- Acts as the measure for judging thoughts and feelings
Article Summary
Objective reality gives firm facts, while subjective reality offers private feelings. Let facts lead and feelings follow; you will think clearly, choose wisely and gain steady personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What is meant by objective reality?
How is subjective reality different from objective reality?
How do the five senses help us reach objective reality?
Why do facts trump feelings in sound decision making?
What does the 'primacy of existence' principle say?
What problems arise from 'mind over matter' thinking?
How can I build objective thinking in daily life?
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Did You Know: Key Statistics
CIPD Good Work Index 2024 shows 71% of UK managers say data-driven choices lift team results, up from 55% in 2021. A YouGov poll (Jan 2024) finds 62% of British adults think people lean on feelings over facts when shaping views, up from 49% in 2020.About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
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