Truth

Truth is a property ascribed to statements, utterances, ideas or beliefs when they correspond to facts as they are. When one says "it is true that rain has fallen", this statement is said to correspond to the actual state of affairs. Its opposite is falsehood or error.

In philosophy, truth is among the earliest topics of debate. The fundamental question is not only "what is truth?" but "what makes something true?" Different views provide different answers, though they agree that truth is something sought in knowledge and argument.

Main theories

The correspondence theory holds that a statement is true if it matches an actual external condition. The coherence theory holds that a statement is true if it fits consistently within a whole system of beliefs. The pragmatist theory emphasizes outcome: what is true is what sustained inquiry and practice continue to support. There are also deflationary theories, which hold that saying "it is true" adds nothing new to a statement, only emphasis.

Truth and knowledge

Knowledge is commonly defined as true justified belief. Truth is therefore a necessary condition for knowledge: one cannot know something false. But truth alone is not enough for knowledge—evidence or some accepted method is also required.

Religion and culture

Most religions regard truth as a moral and spiritual value. In Islam, al-Haqq (the Truth) is among the names of God, and truthfulness and the avoidance of falsehood are duties. In Somali custom, truthfulness and keeping promises are foundations of pastoral law (xeer) and social standing.

Challenge and modern debate

Modern scholars have questioned whether truth is singular and universal, noting the role of language, power and social perspective in determining what counts as true. Others have warned against misusing such theories to reject evidence, arguing that the distinction between truth and falsehood remains essential to any dialogue.