US Research: PICT

Fact vs. Opinion

A fact is something that is known or proven to be true.

An opinion is a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on facts or evidence.

Factual Claims vs. Value Claims

A factual claim can be proven, true or false, by verifiable information.

Factual claims are not necessarily true, but they attempt to convince you that something is true.

Examples:  

• Smoking causes cancer (true claim)

• The Earth is flat (false claim)

Value claims are based on judgments or opinions. They cannot be proven or disproven.

They try to prove that something is good or bad, right or wrong, or the best option.

Examples: 

• Animal Crossing is the most relaxing game

• Eating meat is unhealthy