The results of a recent poll show that most members want people to use more sources. As such, I've decided to write a short 'guide' to make sure people understand how to do this.
When do I need to use a source? Sources should be used whenever possible, but should be used whenever making a statistical claim or claim of evidence. This could be data on trimesters abortions occur in, claims of evidence for Noah's flood etc. If you don't give a source but someone asks for one, please give them the source as soon as possible.
What is a reliable source? A reliable source is something that gives unbiased (as far as possible), valid evidence. Most .org and .gov websites are reliable. Scientific journals, such as Nature, PubMed or other journals which contain peer reviewed studies are also good sources. Biased sources, such as anti-christian .com websites (they may be relevant in certain topics though) or websites known for spreading misinformation should not be used.
How do I check if a source is biased/misinformed? To check if a source is biased or misinformed, use fact-checkers like Politifact (https://www.politifact.com/), research any facts mentioned and check any scientific studies mentioned to ensure they are reliable. If you believe someone’s source to be bad, respectfully let them know and give reasons why you think it to be so.
Anything else? We work to be inclusive to all members, and I understand that some members cannot link/access sources. If this happens to you, please feel free to ask us to link/find the source for you. Please only do this if you cannot otherwise access a source. If you do do this, remember to specify what the source is called/the subject matter and website.
When do I need to use a source?
Sources should be used whenever possible, but should be used whenever making a statistical claim or claim of evidence. This could be data on trimesters abortions occur in, claims of evidence for Noah's flood etc.
If you don't give a source but someone asks for one, please give them the source as soon as possible.
What is a reliable source?
A reliable source is something that gives unbiased (as far as possible), valid evidence. Most .org and .gov websites are reliable. Scientific journals, such as Nature, PubMed or other journals which contain peer reviewed studies are also good sources. Biased sources, such as anti-christian .com websites (they may be relevant in certain topics though) or websites known for spreading misinformation should not be used.
How do I check if a source is biased/misinformed?
To check if a source is biased or misinformed, use fact-checkers like Politifact (https://www.politifact.com/), research any facts mentioned and check any scientific studies mentioned to ensure they are reliable. If you believe someone’s source to be bad, respectfully let them know and give reasons why you think it to be so.
Anything else?
We work to be inclusive to all members, and I understand that some members cannot link/access sources. If this happens to you, please feel free to ask us to link/find the source for you. Please only do this if you cannot otherwise access a source. If you do do this, remember to specify what the source is called/the subject matter and website.