Please click on the link for the article by BY ERIC LANGSHUR AND NATE KLEMP PHD
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Fact. Truth. Belief. They are related but distinct. Here’s a clear explanation showing how they differ and interact:Fact. Truth. Belief. They are related but distinct. Here’s a clear explanation showing how they differ and interact:
1. Fact
Definition:
A fact is something that is objectively real and can be proven to be true. It exists independently of what anyone thinks or believes.
Example:
- It is a fact that Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere.
Key Points:
- Facts don’t change based on opinion.
- They can be verified with evidence (e.g. scientific data, observation, reliable records).
- Facts are the foundation upon which truth claims and beliefs can be tested.
2. Truth
Definition:
Truth is a quality of a statement or belief that accurately reflects reality or fact.
Example:
- “Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere” is a true statement because it corresponds with the fact.
Key Points:
- Truth depends on alignment with facts.
- Truth is often expressed in language or claims (“That’s true”, “That’s not true”).
- Something can be true even if no one believes it (e.g. the Earth orbited the Sun even when most people thought otherwise).
3. Belief
Definition:
A belief is something a person thinks or accepts as true, whether or not it actually is.
Example:
- Someone might believe that kangaroos can be kept as pets in all Australian states — but that belief isn’t necessarily true or factual.
Key Points:
- Beliefs are subjective — they vary between individuals and cultures.
- A belief can be true or false, depending on whether it aligns with facts.
- People often act based on their beliefs, regardless of whether they are accurate.
How They Interact
- A belief can be true or false:
→ If your belief aligns with fact, it’s true.
→ If not, it’s false — even if sincerely held. - Truth depends on fact:
→ A statement is true if it correctly describes a fact. - Facts stand alone:
→ They are not changed by belief or opinion.
What is love and how do I know if I’m in love?What is love and how do I know if I’m in love?
Love isn’t a single chemical but it does involve powerful chemicals in your body. When people say “love is just chemicals,” that’s oversimplified. Love is a complex emotional and psychological experience, but it’s strongly influenced by brain chemistry.
Here are the main chemicals involved:
1. Dopamine — the reward chemical
This is linked to pleasure, motivation, and craving. When you’re attracted to someone, dopamine spikes, which is why love can feel exciting, addictive, and energising.
2. Oxytocin — the bonding hormone
Often called the “love hormone.” It’s released during physical touch, cuddling, sex, and even deep conversation. It helps create feelings of trust, attachment, and emotional closeness.
3. Vasopressin — attachment chemical
Plays a role in long-term bonding and pair attachment, especially in committed relationships.
4. Serotonin — mood regulator (also influences sleep, appetite, digestion and cognition)
Serotonin activity (or “signalling”) can shift during early romantic attraction, which may explain why you obsessively think about someone in the early stages.
5. Adrenaline & norepinephrine
These create the physical symptoms: racing heart, sweaty palms, butterflies.
Love isn’t just chemistry — but chemistry is part of how your brain creates the feeling. Think of it like this:
- Chemicals are the mechanism.
- Love is the experience.
Being “in love” isn’t always a big, dramatic lightning-bolt moment. It’s usually a mix of feelings, attachment, and a steady choice to be with someone. Here are some signs that often point to real love rather than just attraction or a crush:
1. You care about who they are, not just how they make you feel
You genuinely admire their character, values and quirks — even their flaws. You’re not just chasing the excitement; you actually like them as a person.
2. Their happiness matters to you
You want good things for them, even when it doesn’t directly benefit you. When they’re struggling, it affects you too.
3. You feel safe being yourself
You don’t feel like you have to put on an act. You can be honest, vulnerable and imperfect, and still feel accepted.
4. You naturally think long-term
When you picture the future, they’re in it — not because you’re forcing it, but because it just feels right.
5. It’s not only intense — it’s steady
A crush can feel all butterflies and nerves.
Love often feels calmer underneath it all — grounded, warm and secure.
6. You choose them
Even on the ordinary days. Even when they annoy you a bit. Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a consistent decision to stay connected. A couple of questions you might ask yourself:
- If the excitement settled down, would I still want them around?
- Do I respect them?
- Do I feel more like myself with them — or less?
Love doesn’t always feel dramatic. Sometimes it’s quiet and steady — and that can be just as real.