In the teachings of Rob Burbea, 'conventional truth' refers to the realm of experience and understanding that aligns with everyday consensus reality, the shared norms and beliefs that underlie our common social and perceptual experiences. It encompasses the mundane realities, the pragmatic workings of the world, and the relational and ethical frameworks we navigate daily. Conventional truth is contrasted with 'ultimate truth,' which transcends dualistic distinctions and the inherent limitations of conceptual thought. While conventional truth operates within the confines of apparent solidity and separation, it is recognized as a necessary dimension for functioning within the world. This dimension is simultaneously imbued with a fluid, contingent quality, suggesting that any apparent solidity is, upon deeper investigation, a construct of mind and context. Thus, conventional truth holds a pragmatic but provisional status, valuable for navigating life yet open to deeper inquiry and understanding.

See also: scientific revolution, western enlightenment, conceptual framework, dependent origination, provisional truth