Facts are simple things, indisputable conclusions that are as solid as Gibraltar. The myriad bits of information that establish facts may leave us scratching our heads, but the end result is bulletproof.

I still shudder every time I recall algebra class. I could have very well scratched my head bald had simple confusion not been replaced by a comfortable sort of stupor. Still in all, those formulas on the blackboard produced an indisputable Gibraltar time and again. At least that is what...