When we talk about “objective vs subjective,” we’re diving into how we perceive, understand, and communicate the world around us. It’s like the difference between taking a photo of a scene exactly as it is (objective) and painting the same scene based on how it makes you feel (subjective). This article will break down objective vs subjective in an easy-to-understand manner, guiding you through their meanings and uses in writing.
The Difference Between Objective vs Subjective Writing
The main difference between objective vs subjective is how facts and personal feelings or opinions are handled. Objective information is like the facts in a news report — clear, direct, and unbiased. Subjective information, on the other hand, is colored by personal feelings, opinions, and experiences.
What does “objective” mean?
To be objective means to stick to the truth as it is, without letting personal feelings, biases, or interpretations interfere. The focus is on what can be verified and proven through the presentation and analysis of information that is based on observable, measurable facts. For instance, when stating that a car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds, the statement is objective because it is a measurable fact that can be tested and confirmed.
In writing, being objective means providing information in a balanced, impartial manner. It involves presenting evidence, statistics, and facts to support statements and conclusions, ensuring that the information is reliable and accurate. Objective writing is particularly crucial in fields like journalism, scientific research, and academic publishing, where credibility and factuality are paramount. It aims to inform, educate, or explain, allowing the reader to form their own opinion based on the presented facts, rather than persuading them with personal feelings or interpretations.
What does “subjective” mean?
Subjective refers to the expression or interpretation of experiences, feelings, and opinions from a personal perspective. It’s grounded in individual perception, influenced by personal beliefs, emotions, and biases. Subjectivity is less about universal truths and more about personal experiences and interpretations. For example, describing a painting as breathtaking or melancholic reflects a subjective view, as it conveys personal feelings and reactions rather than measurable facts.
In writing, subjectivity allows for a personal touch, expressing the writer’s individual viewpoint, emotions, and interpretations. Subjective writing often appears in literature, opinion columns, and personal blogs, where the goal is to share personal experiences, persuade, or connect emotionally with the reader. It’s characterized by the use of first-person narratives, emotive language, and personal anecdotes, which help to convey the writer’s personal stance or feelings on a subject.
Subjective writing is not just about stating opinions; it’s also about exploring and conveying the complexities of personal experience and individual interpretation. It offers readers insight into the writer’s unique perspective, inviting them to see the world through someone else’s eyes and to engage with it on a more emotional and personal level.
Objective vs Subjective: Combine for Greater Depth and Engagement
There are instances where blending objective and subjective writing can lead to powerful and insightful communication. One such example is autoethnographic writing, where authors integrate personal experiences with broader cultural, political, or social analysis. This approach combines subjective reflections and narratives with objective research and facts to deepen understanding and engagement with the topic.
Autoethnography
In autoethnography, writers use their personal experiences as a lens to explore broader social realities. They might objectively analyze data or historical events and intertwine these with subjective narratives, offering a personal and contextual view on the issue. For example, a researcher might share their personal journey with a particular social issue, like immigration, while also presenting statistical data and policy analysis. This melds the factual with the personal, providing a nuanced objective vs subjective perspective that engages readers on both an intellectual and emotional level. Here’s an example of an autoethnographic journal paper by our own Editor-in-Chief, Kat McNichol.
Investigative Journalism
Investigative journalism often combines objective facts with subjective storytelling to create a compelling narrative. Journalists may start with objective reporting on an event or issue, presenting data, evidence, and eyewitness accounts. They then weave in subjective elements, such as personal stories or the emotional impact on affected individuals, to humanize the facts and engage readers more deeply. Check out CBC Radio Canada’s description of the unique features of intestigative journalism.
Scientific Communication
In the domain of science, researchers sometimes blend objective data with subjective insights to make their work more accessible and relatable. For example, a scientific paper might objectively present research findings and then discuss the subjective implications of these findings on societal or ethical levels, helping to bridge the gap scientific research vs human impact.
Business Case Studies
In business case studies, the combination of objective analysis and subjective narrative can effectively illustrate business concepts and strategies. A case study might objectively outline a company’s challenges and the strategies employed to address them, while also incorporating subjective insights into the decision-making processes and personal experiences of key stakeholders. Checkout this business case study about how the Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail used Amazon’s AWS services to increase reader engagement.
These examples show that combining objective and subjective writing can enhance the depth, relatability, and impact of the narrative, making complex or abstract information more tangible and engaging for the audience.
FAQs: Objective vs Subjective
Objectivity in writing means presenting the facts clearly and fairly, without letting personal feelings or biases cloud the information. It’s about being neutral and providing the information as it is.
1. Presenting statistics without manipulation
2. Reporting events in a straightforward manner
3. Describing processes or procedures step by step
Subjectivity in writing refers to expressing personal opinions, feelings, and biases. It’s when the writer’s perspective significantly influences how information is presented.
1. Using phrases like “In my opinion” or “I believe”
2. Describing feelings or personal experiences
3. Evaluating something based on personal taste or preference
The choice between objective and subjective depends on your goal. If you need to convey facts, instructions, or unbiased information, go objective. But if you’re sharing experiences, opinions, or persuading someone based on personal beliefs, subjective is the way to go.
To use objective and subjective effectively in writing, consider your audience and purpose. For academic or scientific papers, stick to objective writing. For blogs, opinion pieces, or personal essays, subjective writing lets you connect with the audience on a personal level. Being clear about your aim will help you decide when and how to mix these two approaches for maximum impact.
Meanwhile, at Dreamers…
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