claims

Claim is a statement that asserts something to be true, often with justification or evidence. In everyday use, a claim expresses a position, belief, or assertion to be accepted as true. Claims can be factual, normative, or policy-oriented. Factual claims assert that something is the case; normative claims evaluate what ought to be done or valued; policy claims argue for a course of action or change in rules.

In science and journalism, claims are typically supported by evidence and open to verification. Empirical claims require data and observation; theoretical claims rely on reasoning consistent with established theory. In law, a claim is a demand or assertion that a party is entitled to a remedy and is resolved through argument and proof under procedural standards.

Evaluating a claim involves examining the quality of the evidence, sources, clarity, and the reasoning that links evidence to conclusion. Common issues include ambiguity, bias, logical fallacies, and overgeneralization. In critical thinking and argumentation, claims are strengthened by explicit assumptions, warranted reasoning, and, when possible, falsifiability.

Claims are central to knowledge-building and discourse; they enable debate, testing, and revision as new information becomes available. A well-supported claim connects a clear assertion to reliable justification and transparent reasoning.