Objectivity: meaning, definitions and examples
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objectivity
[ˌɒbdʒɛkˈtɪvɪti ]
Definitions
in journalism
The quality of being objective; the ability to consider all sides of an issue fairly and without bias.
Synonyms
fairness, impartiality, neutrality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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objectivity |
Used when someone assesses a situation or information based purely on facts, without personal feelings or biases influencing the judgement.
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impartiality |
Applicable when describing a person or entity that is free from favoritism or bias, often used in legal or official contexts.
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neutrality |
Often used in political, diplomatic, or conflict settings to describe a stance of not supporting any side. Can also apply to non-conflict scenarios to indicate no expressed preference.
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fairness |
Commonly used when discussing justice, equality, or treating people in a just and unbiased manner. It carries a connotation of moral rightness.
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Examples of usage
- Journalists strive for objectivity in their reporting.
- She was praised for her objectivity in covering the political debate.
in science
The state or quality of being free from personal feelings or opinions; the ability to view things as they are without interference from emotions or prejudices.
Synonyms
detachment, impartiality, unbiasedness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
objectivity |
Use 'objectivity' when discussing the ability to consider facts without influence from personal feelings or prejudices, often in general or formal contexts.
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unbiasedness |
Use 'unbiasedness' to emphasize the absence of bias or preconceived notions, often in contexts requiring fair evaluation or analysis, such as research or reporting.
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detachment |
Use 'detachment' when highlighting an emotional distance from the subject, often implying a personal decision to remain uninvolved or separate.
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impartiality |
Use 'impartiality' when there is a need to stress fairness and an equal treatment of all parties involved, typically in contexts of judgment or mediation.
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Examples of usage
- Scientific research requires a high level of objectivity.
- The scientist's objectivity led to a breakthrough in the field.
general usage
The quality of being based on facts, logic, and evidence rather than emotions or personal opinions.
Synonyms
factuality, logic, rationality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
objectivity |
In situations where there is a need to remain unbiased and not influenced by personal feelings or opinions.
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factuality |
When discussing or emphasizing the accuracy and truthfulness of information based on facts.
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rationality |
In discussions about decision-making or behavior that is based on reason and logical thinking rather than emotions.
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logic |
When referring to a clear, reasoned, and structured way of thinking or arguing a point.
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Examples of usage
- Her decision-making process is driven by objectivity and rationality.
- We need to approach this issue with objectivity and reason.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'objectivus', meaning 'presented to view' or 'observable'.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century, highlighting a shift towards valuing evidence and factual assessment.
- Related terms include 'subjectivity', which refers to personal perspectives and emotions.
Philosophy
- Philosophers often debate about how true objectivity can be achieved in understanding reality.
- Immanuel Kant distinguished between knowing something objectively and experiencing it subjectively, impacting fields like ethics and science.
- In epistemology, the study of knowledge, objectivity is seen as crucial for establishing truth.
Science
- In scientific research, objectivity is essential for unbiased data collection and analysis.
- Studies that lack objectivity can lead to flawed conclusions, highlighting the importance of using standardized methods.
- Objectivity in science helps ensure that findings are replicable and verifiable by other researchers.
Journalism
- In journalism, objectivity is a core principle aimed at reporting facts without bias or opinion.
- Reporters strive to present multiple viewpoints, allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions.
- Critics argue that true objectivity may be challenging to achieve due to inherent biases in sources and individual perspectives.
Psychology
- In psychotherapy, objectivity helps therapists understand their clients' issues without projecting their own feelings.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy emphasizes recognizing personal biases to make clearer decisions.
- Understanding one's own viewpoints can aid in achieving a more objective mindset when evaluating situations.
Translations
Translations of the word "objectivity" in other languages:
🇵🇹 objetividade
🇮🇳 वस्तुनिष्ठता
🇩🇪 Objektivität
🇮🇩 objektivitas
🇺🇦 об'єктивність
🇵🇱 obiektywność
🇯🇵 客観性 (きゃっかんせい)
🇫🇷 objectivité
🇪🇸 objetividad
🇹🇷 nesnellik
🇰🇷 객관성 (객관적인)
🇸🇦 موضوعية
🇨🇿 objektivita
🇸🇰 objektivita
🇨🇳 客观性 (kèguān xìng)
🇸🇮 objektivnost
🇮🇸 hlutlægni
🇰🇿 объективтілік
🇬🇪 ობიექტურობა
🇦🇿 obyektivlik
🇲🇽 objetividad