Informed vs. Told

Attribute	Informed	Told
Definition	Provided with knowledge or information	Communicated information to someone
Method	Can be through various means such as reading, research, or personal experience	Usually involves verbal or written communication
Recipient	Can be oneself or others	Usually involves another person as the recipient
Intent	May or may not be intentional	Usually intentional

Definition

When someone is informed, they are provided with knowledge or information about a particular subject or topic. This can be done through various means such as reading, research, or direct communication. On the other hand, when someone is told something, it means that information is being conveyed to them by another person. This can be done verbally, in writing, or through other forms of communication.

Source of Information

Being informed typically involves seeking out information from reliable sources such as books, articles, experts, or reputable websites. Individuals who are informed take the initiative to educate themselves on a particular topic. On the other hand, being told something usually involves receiving information from another person. This can be a teacher, a friend, a family member, or any other individual who is sharing knowledge with you.

Level of Understanding

When someone is informed about a topic, they usually have a deeper level of understanding compared to someone who is simply told about it. This is because being informed often involves conducting research, analyzing information, and forming one's own opinions. On the other hand, being told something may not always lead to a thorough understanding of the subject matter, as the information is being presented without the individual actively engaging with it.

Accuracy of Information

Individuals who are informed tend to have access to more accurate and reliable information compared to those who are simply told something. This is because being informed involves verifying sources, fact-checking, and critically evaluating information. On the other hand, when someone is told something, there is a risk of misinformation or misunderstanding, as the accuracy of the information being conveyed may not always be guaranteed.

Independence

Being informed allows individuals to make decisions and form opinions independently, based on the knowledge they have acquired. This independence comes from actively seeking out information and critically evaluating it. On the other hand, being told something may lead to a reliance on others for information, which can limit one's ability to think critically and make informed decisions.

Empowerment

Individuals who are informed are often empowered to take action, advocate for themselves, and make positive changes in their lives or communities. This empowerment comes from having a deep understanding of a particular topic and being able to use that knowledge effectively. On the other hand, being told something may not always lead to the same level of empowerment, as the information being conveyed may not be as comprehensive or impactful.

Application

Being informed allows individuals to apply their knowledge in various contexts, whether it be in their personal lives, professional careers, or social interactions. This application comes from having a solid foundation of information and understanding. On the other hand, being told something may limit the ability to apply that information effectively, as the depth of understanding may not be as strong.

Conclusion

While both being informed and being told have their own merits, it is clear that being informed offers a deeper level of understanding, accuracy, independence, empowerment, and application. Individuals who take the initiative to educate themselves on various topics are better equipped to make informed decisions, advocate for themselves, and contribute positively to society. On the other hand, being told something can still be valuable in certain situations, but it may not always lead to the same level of knowledge and empowerment that comes from being informed.