Fact, Value, and Policy Statements

• Statements are categorized as fact, value, or policy.
• Understanding the differences between these categories is important in argumentation and critical thinking.

Fact

• A statement that can be proven true or false with objective evidence.
• "The Earth revolves around the sun" is a fact.
• "Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease" is a fact.
• "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level" is a fact.
• "Deforestation contributes to climate change" is a fact.
• "The Great Pyramid of Giza was built by ancient Egyptians" is a fact.
• "Regular exercise reduces the risk of obesity" is a fact.
• "Wearing seatbelts saves lives" is a fact.

Value

• A statement that expresses a judgment, belief, or opinion about what is good, bad, right, or wrong.
• Value statements are subjective and based on personal preferences or cultural norms.
• "Capital punishment is inhumane" is a value statement.
• "Italian food is the tastiest cuisine" is a value statement.
• "Cats are superior pets to dogs" is a value statement.
• "Higher education is essential for career success" is a value statement.
• "Classical music is more sophisticated than pop music" is a value statement.
• "Reality television is mindless entertainment" is a value statement.
• "Mexican food is delicious" is a value statement.

Policy

• A statement that proposes a course of action or a solution to a problem.
• Policy statements often include the word "should" and advocate for a specific plan or change.
• "The minimum wage should be increased" is a policy statement.
• "All citizens should have the right to vote" is a policy statement.
• "The drinking age should be lowered to 18" is a policy statement.
• "Companies should be mandated to provide paid sick leave" is a policy statement.
• "The speed limit on residential streets should be 25 mph" is a policy statement.
• "The government should invest more in public transportation" is a policy statement.