There is a vast difference between GENERAL statements and
SPECIFIC statements although superficially they may be similar.
Think of this as the kind of difference there is between a telescope and a microscope.
The telescope views objects from long distances and brings them closer. A microscope takes near objects and enlarges them to the point everything contained inside is revealed.
The telescope is GENERAL and the microscope is SPECIFIC.
Now what would be an example of a GENERAL statement and a SPECIFIC statement?
GENERAL: The moon is about a quarter of a million miles away.
SPECIFIC: The moon varies in distance 221,463 to 252,710 miles from Earth.
Is the above TRUE?
Here is where Truth gets more interesting!
Truth consists not only of factual statements. Truth must contain only factual statements as well as all KNOWN factual statements.
The Truth, the whole truth and nothing but the Truth.
Example: The distance between the earth and moon is NOT measured from surface to surface but from center to center!
To compute such distances one must have previously computed the diameter of both the earth and the moon.
Is this all that needs to be known and included for a TRUE statement to exist?
No!
The PRACTICAL implication of truth must be demonstrated as well!
For example:
Before launching a rocket from earth to moon the distance from the surface to surface must be computed accurately. The earth is spinning and the moon is revolving simultaneously. This is similar to riding on a merry-go-round and trying to shoot at a target that is also moving.
The PRACTICAL test of TRUTH is the most important aspect.
Unless an actual test can be demonstrated or falsified the standard falls from one of TRUTH to that of idle SPECULATION.
IN SUMMARY: TESTABLE TRUTH is the most valuable because it is accurate, specific and practical.
Consider the following words and ask yourself two questions about each word.
1.Are these GENERAL words or SPECIFIC words?
2.Do these words have practical, testable value which yield non-contradictory results? Or, are they mere assertions of non-fact?
FAITH
JUSTICE
SPIRIT
ENERGY
CONSCIOUSNESS
LOGIC
DEATH
Who wants to take a crack?