What does an assumption represent?

An assumption represents a notion that may or may not be factual, as it is often taken for granted or accepted without proof. In many situations, assumptions are made to simplify complex scenarios or to facilitate decision-making. For instance, in corrections or law enforcement, officers might make assumptions about a suspect's behavior based on past experiences or available information. However, because these assumptions are not verified and can vary greatly in accuracy, they embody a degree of uncertainty. This differentiates them from factual beliefs, scientifically proven statements, or collective agreements, which rely on verified evidence or consensus among a group. Understanding assumptions is crucial in critical thinking, as they can lead to biases or misconceptions if not examined critically.