Opinion of "Lived Experiences"

[Kleine Scheiße]

Option 2. The plural of "anecdote" may be "data"—but this does not mean that all data is sound.

Personal experience is useful in elucidating how and why certain broad phenomena can appear in and tangibly affect individuals' lives. It is also not enough evidence alone to use as the base of any particular opinion. Generally, it is most useful when seeking to identify the effects on marginal cases of sweeping policy decisions. I'd point to my own experience with higher education as an example; a sample size of one which may be helpful to consider when thinking about possible unintentional effects of political changes, but objectively doesn't fit with the obvious macro trends.

I don't think we should allow everything to become about just playing to the median, and I believe that the individual is the smallest minority; but I don't believe that every single person's needs must be fully met by a policy if that policy helps an overwhelming enough majority of people.

[Robert California]

Mine have been amazing.

[Farmlands]

Too often used online by people seeking to end a discussion coming out on top when they previously weren't, and who won't admit that there may be individuals similar to them with opposite views. Anecdotes are good to making others see where you're coming from, not disproving broader points.