Let’s wax philosophical and discuss the meaning and usage of the word indisputable. According to online dictionaries, it means to be beyond dispute, beyond doubt, beyond questions of truth and validity, and so on. Therefore, if something is indisputable, then it or assertions about it are factually correct and cannot be debated. However, as a person who rejects absolutes and thrives on healthy debate, I disagree with the concept that a state of unassailable truth is inherently within all statements of indisputability.
Although realities such as the existence of the universe and life itself are certainly beyond question, there are innumerable topics for exploration and intelligent discussion that become immediately dismissed once topical indisputability is introduced. In today's world of polarized sociopolitical thought, the word indisputable is sometimes used as a means of galvanizing like-minded masses for or against an allegedly unambiguous cause while vilifying those who believe otherwise. In short, it is one of the many figurative materials used in the construction and continuance of impenetrable silos of thought and the preservation of the presumed truths that exist within them. Resting within the preceding is the key element underlying my distaste for the word's usage, as truth is conceptual. That is, fact—the basis for truth and a key element of indisputability—is often fluid. Fact arises from an assessment of currently available information, but information changes as time and understanding both progress. For example, before its discovery in 1985, the indisputable and officially certified truth behind the sinking of the RMS Titanic was that the vessel sank in one piece. However, the discovery of its shattered wreck forced the acceptance of a new truth, of a new reality, both resulting from a greater understanding of events. Moreover, truth is often wholly subjective, and it frequently varies according to the orientation of the person. Consider religion and its meaning to the irreligious and to the devout. For example, the religious truths held by Orthodox Christians are denied by atheists, yet both could very well state that their respective views are indisputably true. Paradoxically, both would be correct in their assertions as truth is neither absolute nor objective. There are many examples in addition to the above, of course. This brief examination of the nature of truth serves to underscore the need for caution when employing the word indisputable, for truth is often fleeting. Almost nothing is beyond dispute as very few things are incontrovertibly true. For all the rest, I believe any perception of indisputability would be wholly inapplicable. Well, that's my take. What's yours? Please let me know in the comments. All the best, Keith V.
Belinda Morgan
10/11/2020 02:59:19 pm
You nailed it! I wish more people understood that truth is often in the eye of the beholder. 10/12/2020 06:18:16 pm
Hi, Belinda! Thanks for coming along to this new home of "On My Mind Today"! Yes, truth is like beauty in that everyone has their own perception of it.
Paree
10/12/2020 02:59:11 am
This was extremely insightful and something to think about. Although, I do believe that as humans, we want certain aspects of our life to be indisputable so that we aren't constantly doubting everything. On the other hand, once we do realise that opinions are personal and don't need complete validation, it is okay for others to have think differently. 10/12/2020 05:42:18 pm
Thank you for stopping by and posting an excellent comment! Yes, differences of opinion are good to have. The assumption of indisputability is, to me, a declaration of a perceived like-mindedness. However, we are individuals, not robots.
Nothing is undisputable. The fact that any person carries a difference of opinion makes every point or topic disputable. Even the fact that although LeBron may be a fantastic basketball player, he is not the undisputable best player to ever play in the league. :-) 10/12/2020 05:25:29 pm
Thank you for reading and for your comments! We are of like minds on this topic. Comments are closed.
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AuthorI love to write! I'm a Technical Writer by day and a blogger by night. On My Mind Today is my creation, and for me it is a true labor of love. Whether the subject is a current issue or a historical matter, I'll try to address it here. I look forward to writing quality content, and I'm open to topic suggestions. I value your feedback! Archives
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