Evidence is information that helps us judge whether a claim is likely to be true. It does not always prove a claim completely, but it can make a claim stronger, weaker or more uncertain.
Not all evidence is equal. A direct observation may be stronger than rumour. A repeated scientific result may be stronger than a single anecdote. A primary document may be stronger than a later retelling. But even strong evidence must be interpreted carefully.
Evidence also depends on the kind of claim being made. A historical claim, a scientific claim, a moral claim, a personal experience and a supernatural claim may require different methods of examination.
Evidence notes
Useful evidence is relevant, reliable, proportionate and open to examination. Weak evidence may still be worth considering, but it should not be treated as decisive.
Ethical questions
Bad evidence can lead to harmful beliefs, unjust accusations, public panic, exploitation or poor decisions.
Conclusion
Evidence is not the enemy of meaning. It is a safeguard against believing too quickly, too strongly or for the wrong reasons.