In an argument, it’s more logical to present the facts rather than personal anecdotes. Fact is based on observable evidence, sometimes systematically collected using the scientific method. Anecdote or personal experience is limited to the individual and is skewed by the person’s emotions and perceptions.

I’m not always as logical as I’d like to be. When someone disagrees with me and refuses to accept the truth regardless of whatever proof I’ve presented, heat starts rising all the way up to my brain. It’s especially vexing because I try to make it my practice to acknowledge the truth even if it doesn’t support the way I chose to do things.

Fortunately, most of the choices we face in modern life are not between life and death. And, we usually have the luxury of having more than two choices. Choices can range from best to not so good, but still acceptable. I don’t see any point in getting defensive because I made a different choice than someone else.

Fact: Use dry towels when handling hot items. Wet or moist towels will transfer the heat from the pot to your hand.
Anecdote*: In the 50-plus years I’ve been cooking, I always use wet towels.

Fact: The safest place for children in a moving car is in a car seat strapped to the backseat.
Anecdote: Not everybody I know uses a car seat and even if they do, they often put them in the front seat.

Fact: Epidurals are drugs that affect the body chemistry of both mother and child.
Anecdote: I had an epidural and everything was fine. We didn’t suffer from any ill effects.

Fact: Vaccines save lives.
Anecdote: Vaccines cause autism.

Fact: Smoking causes cancer and other health problems.
Anecdote: My grandfather smoked all his life and he’s a healthy octogenarian.

I always back up my arguments with solid facts and can even suggest relevant, reputable websites for reference. While I enjoy hearing anecdotal evidence, I always take it with a grain of salt. I wish everyone would do the same.

*These anecdotes are fictional and not necessarily my own experience.