Objektívnos

Objektívnos is the quality or state of being objective, defined as independence from personal feelings, interpretations, or prejudice, and reliance on observable facts and verified evidence. The term appears in Slavic languages, including Slovak, with related forms such as objektívnosť, and is used in discussions of neutrality across different fields. It denotes a standard of neutrality applied to statements, assessments, or procedures rather than to individual viewpoints.

In science, objektívnos is a methodological ideal: hypotheses are tested under controlled conditions, observations are documented, and results are intended to be reproducible by others. Methods to promote objectivity include pre-registration, standardized protocols, randomization, blinding, and peer review. However, scholars acknowledge that complete objectivity is elusive; measurement error, theory-laden observation, and researcher choices can influence outcomes.

In journalism and law, objektívnos refers to presenting information and applying norms in ways that minimize personal bias. Journalistic objectivity aims for fair presentation of significant viewpoints and factual accuracy, while legal objectivity emphasizes impartial interpretation of evidence and statutes. Critics note that objectivity can be shaped by institutional and cultural frameworks, and they stress transparency about methods, sources, and potential conflicts of interest as essential.

Debates surround whether objectivity is always achievable or desirable in all domains. Some scholars advocate reflexivity, triangulation, and the inclusion of multiple perspectives as complements to objectivity to improve reliability and legitimacy. See also neutrality, bias, subjectivity, epistemology, and replication.