You drew me in with the lighting, the title and the hook :D so you are a sophist!
For sure it's important to try to, when we can, put our feelings aside and listen to the message rather than the messenger. Sometimes it's difficult to do that.. but those who can do that well, are often the best ones who can be investigative reporters and such. Many people, myself included, are not as strong on that front!
Lol, I'm really an amateur compared to the sophists in this but I did borrow their playbook to honor them while coming up with this post after reading more about them :D
Indeed, there's a way to separate the two but only when we have the right framework of understanding. I think bias can't be entirely eliminated however at least being aware of it and also reduce its influence can help a lot in this regard. Good to be a bit of a skeptic to put on that critical thinking hat.
Thanks for stopping by :)