Sanningstrohet

Sanningstrohet is a Swedish term describing the quality of being truthful, accurate, and honest in statements and beliefs. In common usage, it denotes a normative standard that claims should correspond to facts as they are known, and that one should avoid intentional misrepresentation.

Etymology: sanning means truth or fact, while trohet or fidelity conveys loyalty. Together, they express fidelity to the truth.

In philosophy and ethics, sanningstrohet is discussed as both a virtue and an epistemic duty. It serves as a standard by which communications are judged: do statements align with evidence and reality? The concept is often contrasted with deception, lying, and misinformation. Some theories recognize limits to truthfulness, such as when disclosure might violate privacy, cause harm, or conflict with other ethical duties.

In practice, sanningstrohet informs professional codes and everyday conduct. Journalists, scientists, educators, and legal professionals are expected to verify information, cite sources, and acknowledge uncertainties. Individuals are encouraged to correct errors and to disclose the limits of their knowledge.

Related concepts include ärlighet (honesty), integritet (integrity), and lögn (lie). Sanningstrohet remains central to discussions about trust, accountability, and the responsibilities of communicators in public life.