28 APRIL 1984, Page 23

Subjective strain

Sir: Although P.J. Kavanagh dislikes the current use of the word 'perception' (Postscript, 31 March), it is possible to defend its newly found popularity amongst politicians and commentators. In this age of uncertainty they feel the need to introduce a subjective strain into their statements without appearing to do so. 'In my opinion' or 'It is my belief that' or `To the best of my knowledge' or 'My impression was that', used as qualifiers, are admissions of partial ignorance. 'It is my perception that' admits the possibility of being mistaken, but also suggests instant penetration to the heart of the matter.

Olwen Matthews 400 North 4th Street, Cocoa Beach, Florida