What are assumptions?

Assumptions are best understood as ideas formed without valid evidence. They represent beliefs or notions that individuals or groups accept as true without requiring proof or rigorous verification. Assumptions are often made in various contexts, such as decision-making, problem-solving, or planning, where information may be incomplete or uncertain.

For instance, in a business setting, someone might assume that a certain marketing strategy will work because similar strategies have succeeded in the past, even if they lack current evidence to support this. Such assumptions can heavily influence strategies and outcomes, highlighting their role in shaping perceptions and driving decisions despite not being substantiated by data or facts.

In contrast, ideas based on evidence, conclusions drawn from careful research, and processed data points involve a systematic approach and validation processes that verify their accuracy or reliability. Therefore, while assumptions can serve as starting points for thought or action, they are distinct in that they are not grounded in direct evidence, which is a critical aspect of distinguishing them from more reliable forms of reasoning or data interpretation.