Self-Evident Truths

The second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence continues: “We hold these truths to be self-evident.” Then five self-evident truths are listed. Here are the first three:

that all men are created equal

that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights

that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness

“Self-evident” means that any thinking, rational person should be able to understand these basic principles. When people base their beliefs and decisions solely on emotions rather than reason, then absolute truth is cast aside for a nebulous “touchy-feely” proclamation that truth is subjective and can differ for each person.

There is absolute truth and it is based on immutable facts. The unreasonable person can blind him/herself to the facts and choose to remain ignorant, but truth will not change.

“Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge among the people. . .” –John Adams