Why do we struggle to value truth as much as we should?

Truth is often hailed as the bedrock of knowledge, integrity, trust, and justice. Paradoxically, we've always had a complex relationship with it.

Our brains crave comfort. When faced with facts that challenge our beliefs, we feel uneasy. To ease it, we seek information confirming what we already believe. We avoid the truth when it threatens our sense of stability. It’s a survival tactic, but it also blinds us.‍

We’re social creatures. Belonging to a group is essential to us. Often, we value group harmony over truth. When truth challenges the beliefs that bond us, we ignore it. Why? Because being part of the group feels safer than standing alone with the truth.‍

Truth can be painful. It forces us to confront harsh realities—about the world, and ourselves. To avoid this pain, we deny, repress, or rationalize. It’s easier to cling to comforting falsehoods than face uncomfortable truths.‍

We live in a world flooded with information. Not all of it is true. Misinformation spreads fast—because it’s often more sensational. Algorithms feed us what we want to see, not what’s true. In this noise, the truth gets lost.‍

Truth often comes at a cost—time, effort, and sometimes, relationships. Falsehoods are cheap and easy, offering immediate benefits. It’s no wonder we sometimes choose the convenient lie over the costly truth.So, why don’t we value truth as much as we should? The truth is hard. It challenges us, disrupts our comfort, and sometimes isolates us. But here’s the thing: truth is also powerful. It gives knowledge, drives change, builds trust, and, ultimately, sets us free.
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The truth may be tough, but it’s worth it. Seek it. Value it. Live by it.

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