It appears from the readings that the subjective state of mind of parties comes into play

Question

quite often. Why is this so? Do professional surveyors record evidence of this in their field
notes? If not, should they? If so, how would they do this?

Answer 1

The subjective state of mind of parties often comes into play because people's perceptions, beliefs, and emotions can significantly influence how they interpret and respond to a situation. In legal disputes or surveying disagreements, different parties may have varying perspectives and interests, which can impact their version of events or their willingness to cooperate.

Professional surveyors typically aim to record objective and factual information in their field notes. However, they may also include observations about the subjective state of mind of parties when it is relevant to the survey or the dispute at hand. This can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation, including any biases or conflicts that may exist.

Including evidence of the subjective state of mind in field notes can be challenging, as it involves capturing and documenting individuals' thoughts, perceptions, and emotions. Some ways surveyors can gather this information include:

1. Direct statements: Surveyors can record direct quotes or verbatim statements made by the parties involved, highlighting their subjective perspectives or intentions.

2. Indirect observations: Surveyors can note any observable behaviors, attitudes, or comments made by the parties that indicate their subjective state of mind.

3. Documentation review: Surveyors may review any written documents, correspondence, or records provided by the parties that reflect their subjective state of mind, such as letters, emails, or text messages.

4. Witness interviews: Surveyors can conduct interviews with relevant witnesses who can provide insights into the subjective states of mind of the parties involved.

It is important to note that the inclusion of subjective evidence in field notes should be done carefully, ensuring that it remains relevant, accurate, and unbiased. Surveyors should strive to maintain objectivity and transparency in their documentation while still capturing the subjective elements that are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the situation.