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Thoughts, feelings, beliefs

I was pleased to read Rob Curley’s column in the Feb. 8 paper explaining his, and this paper’s, commitment to reporting accurate news. I was especially pleased to read the distinction he made between facts and beliefs, but I do not believe it went far enough.

Over the last couple of decades, I have noticed the conflation of think, feel and believe. In all forms of media, and in everyday conversations, people state they “feel” a belief of fact, such as “I feel our president is doing a great job.” Most people have feelings about their elected leaders, but that statement is of a belief, not a feeling.

I could give other examples of this inaccurate form of communication, but will not take up precious letter to the editor space. All you have to do is read the paper with an attuned eye and you will see multiple examples.

So, I respectfully request that Editor Curley start editing with that attuned eye. The Spokesman-Review could become cutting-edge journalism and subtly teach us all about our thoughts, feelings and beliefs.

Miriam Berkman

Spokane

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