Definition of information
An information is a message that:
- Has relevance for the public: It concerns a large number of people.
- Is factual: It is based on facts and not on opinions.
- Is verifiable: It has been confirmed by reliable sources.
The origin of the word “information” comes from the Latin informare, which means “to form,” “to give oneself an idea of something.” Information therefore helps us better understand the world around us.
Information, rumor, anecdote, or opinion?
Examples
- Anecdote: “My friend went to the cinema.” → Not information, because it does not concern a large number of people.
- Opinion: “This movie is great!” → Not factual, it is a personal judgment.
- Information: “A new superhero movie is being filmed.” → This is a verifiable fact that interests a wide audience.
- Rumor: “A very famous actor is said to have left the set.” → May be interesting, but not confirmed.
Information vs. Opinion: Learning to Distinguish Between the Two
In our daily lives, we are constantly exposed to information and opinions, whether in the media, on social networks, or in our conversations. To be an informed reader and citizen, it is essential to know how to distinguish them quickly and to develop critical thinking.
- Information is based on facts, events, statistics, studies, or observations. It is verifiable and objective.
- Opinion expresses a personal judgment, a belief, or a value. It is neither true nor false, as it is a matter of subjective interpretation.
Why is it difficult to distinguish between them?
Our emotions influence our perception of information. Information that upsets us may seem biased, while an opinion that matches our beliefs may appear to us as an absolute truth. This is what is called the confirmation bias.
Clues for distinguishing between information and opinion
1. Tone and vocabulary
- An informative text uses a neutral and descriptive tone. The author does not include themselves and prefers third-person pronouns (he, she, one, they). Quotes are introduced with objective verbs: confirm, report, observe, demonstrate.
- An opinion text adopts a subjective and critical tone, often tinged with emotions. The author expresses their ideas using personal pronouns (I, we) and employs connoted terms: believe, suggest, exclaim, threaten.
2. Is it verifiable?
- Information can be proven with verifiable facts (names, dates, figures, studies, reliable sources).
- Opinion cannot be objectively verified, as it is based on personal interpretation.
Journalists are required to verify their sources and clearly cite the people they interview. Incorrect information can be corrected or refuted.
3. Type of content
- Informative texts: report, investigation, news article.
- Opinion texts: editorial, column, blog, influencer video.
Beware of mixing genres
Some opinion texts are based on verifiable facts, and informative texts may contain subjective comments. It is therefore crucial to develop a critical perspective and always verify sources.
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