While experience, proven technique, or an expert's research on a given topic are all great guides in the pursuit of knowledge, said expert's opinion will almost certainly hinder or discourage someone in the pursuit of knowledge. The very nature of an opinion is something that undoubtedly calls into question the three factors mentioned above regarding the pursuit of knowledge. Most definitions of the word “opinion” have the same characteristics in diction, with “a belief,” “a personal view,” and “estimate” all topping the list of most commonly used phrases and words. The most commonly used phrases and words in the diction of definitions of “knowledge” are “truth,” “state of knowledge,” and “study or inquiry.” In comparison, it is clear that the two terms are not only contradictions, but are also at opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to the pursuit of knowledge. So, while you can certainly base an opinion on experience or research, an expert opinion is most likely created by personal interests, emotions, or lack of research. Therefore, an opinion will lead you astray in the proverbial “quest for knowledge”, simply because an opinion is based on personal intuitions, while facts are absolute truth, impartial in its nature. Most research is funded by government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, or other established entities, so at a minimum, self-interest is at the heart of every grant awarded or research project commissioned. In the scenario that will be presented, I will show how self-interest can not only hinder the pursuit of knowledge, but almost destroy the enterprise before it begins. Let's say that "El Dorado Cigarettes" funds "United Front Tobacco Research" for research and proof that... middle of paper... and that an opinion on the search for knowledge can be just as deadly as a trap opinion during an adventure, in fact they are the same thing. “If we take the opinion of industry experts and follow their advice, there is every chance of getting that job done easily and without too much trouble. Therefore we should follow a path that leads to happiness and where there is no fear of getting lost." This quote comes from the Vajurveda, the third text of the four canonical texts of Hinduism, the Vedas. I included this quote to show a fallacy that affects all opinion seekers: if all knowledge seekers follow the same path of opinion, then they could not be on the path to knowledge. Those who diverge from the indicated path are truly the ones who will gain knowledge and insight. Going off track, into the unknown, is what has shaped the world as it is today.