FACT and FANCY

?By Joel A. Robinson

Accuracy is the most critical communication component, but a lack of precision in language can tarnish it. Assertions are not always facts, beliefs are not always facts, and carefully worded sentences are not always factual. Denial is not proof an assertion is factual.

Why is it important to demand accuracy in communication?

Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, is taking the position that any issue he disagrees with is fake or false without substantiating his assertion. This degradation of communication is severe, mainly because a former president is practicing it.

However, results evolve from reality and not from fanciful beliefs.

For example, Trump is claiming the last election was stolen, and the charges against him in the four court cases are politically motivated. These false assertions have allowed him to gain politically where he has control of the Republican Party.

Trump’s disastrous debate performance against Harris, partly caused by his denials and unproven assertions, loosened his control of the Republican Party. House Speaker Mike Johnson could not introduce a bill after the debate because several Republican members defected. If Trump loses in November, this could be a harbinger of what will happen in 2025.

Those politicians who enthusiastically backed Trump when it appeared he would regain the presidency will have difficulty explaining their positions. This is especially true if Trump’s loss means the various court cases will proceed, and if convicted on one or all of these, it would lead to a prison sentence. ?