The phrase "self evident truths" is often spelled with an "e" in "evident", but this is a common misspelling. The correct spelling is actually "self-evident truths". The "e" in "self" is pronounced with a short "e" sound (/sɛlf/), while "evident" is pronounced with a long "e" sound (/ˈɛvɪdənt/). The hyphen between "self" and "evident" helps to clarify that they are separate words and not a single compound word. This phrase is used to describe truths that are immediately obvious and do not require additional explanation.
Self-evident truths are statements or principles that are immediately and clearly understood without the need for additional proof or explanation. These truths are intuitive and require no further intellectual examination, because their validity or truthfulness is inherently apparent. They are foundational beliefs or ideas that are universally recognized and accepted as being inherently true and undeniable.
The term "self-evident" suggests that these truths are evident or obvious to anyone who gives even the slightest consideration to them, based on their inherent nature or upon common sense. They are considered to be true by virtue of their own essence or content, and not because they are proven or demonstrated through logical argumentation or empirical evidence.
Self-evident truths are often associated with fundamental concepts of morality, ethics, or human rights. For example, the idea that all human beings are created equal and are entitled to certain inalienable rights, as expressed in the United States Declaration of Independence, is often considered to be a self-evident truth. These truths are meant to serve as the basis for ethical or moral reasoning and guide individuals or societies in their beliefs and actions.
In summary, self-evident truths are inherently and immediately understood as true without the need for further explanation or proof. They are universally recognized and accepted principles that, by their nature, are considered to be undeniable and obvious to anyone who reflects upon them.