SUBJECTIVE meaning and definition
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What Does "Subjective" Mean?
In our everyday lives, we often use words and phrases without giving much thought to their meanings. One such word is "subjective." It's a term that is widely used in various fields, including philosophy, psychology, sociology, and even art. But what does it really mean?
Defining Subjectivity
At its core, subjectivity refers to the quality of being based on personal experiences, opinions, or perspectives. In other words, something that is subjective is influenced by an individual's thoughts, feelings, and biases. This means that two people can have different subjective experiences of the same event, situation, or idea.
For example, when you watch a movie, your experience of it is subjective. Your emotions, reactions, and interpretation are unique to you and may not be the same for someone else who watches the same film. Similarly, when you evaluate a piece of art, your opinion about its beauty, meaning, or impact is also subjective.
The Difference Between Subjective and Objective
To understand subjectivity better, let's contrast it with objectivity. Objective refers to something that can be verified or proven through evidence, logic, or empirical observation. In other words, objective statements are based on facts and are not influenced by personal opinions or biases.
Here's a simple example: "The sky is blue" is an objective statement because it's a fact that can be observed and measured. On the other hand, "I love the color blue" is a subjective statement because it's based on my personal preference.
Consequences of Subjectivity
Subjectivity has significant implications in various areas:
- Communication: When we express our opinions or perspectives, we're sharing our subjective experiences with others. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and miscommunications if people have different subjective interpretations.
- Decision-making: In decision-making processes, subjectivity can introduce personal biases and emotional influences, which may not be in the best interest of all parties involved.
- Art and Creativity: Subjectivity plays a crucial role in artistic expression, as creators bring their unique perspectives and experiences to their work.
Conclusion
Subjectivity is an essential aspect of human experience, influencing our perceptions, opinions, and interactions with others. By recognizing and understanding subjectivity, we can better navigate our relationships, make more informed decisions, and appreciate the diversity of human perspectives. So, the next time someone says, "That's just my opinion," you'll know that they're referring to their subjective experience!
References
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary. (n.d.). Subjective. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subjective
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). Subjectivity. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/subjectivity/
- The Oxford Handbook of Cognitive Linguistics. (2013). Subjectivity and the Locus of Control. Retrieved from https://www.oxfordhandbooks.com/view/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199733148.001.0001/oxfordhb-9780199733148-e-24
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