Source Reliability

What is the first thing you should look for when determining the reliability of a source?

• The date

• The author

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Hollywood Blockbuster Film

• Hollywood Documentary

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Book by a famous historian

• Book by a celebrity

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Interview 40 years after the event.

• Interview 1 year after the event.

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Court testimony of someone accused of a crime.

• Court testimony of someone who witnessed a crime.

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Research conducted by an outside non-profit.

• Research conducted by someone in the business.

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Governor testifying before Congress.

• Governor running for re-election.

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• An old letter to a friend.

• An old government map.

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• Newspaper article from a major newspaper

• High School Textbook

Which source is more likely to be trusted?

• A painting in honor of a relative.

• A painting paid for by the government.