1.  Reliability

"'Reliability' refers to the accuracy of factual data in a source as determined by external validation.  If you check a writer's 'facts' against other sources, do you find that the facts are correct?  Does the writer distort facts, take them out of context, or otherwise use them unreasonably?" (597)

2.  Credibility

"'Credibility' is similar to 'reliability' but is based on internal rather than external factors.  It refers to the reader's trust in the writer's honesty, goodwill, and trustworthiness and is apparent in the writer's tone, reasonableness, fairness in summarizing opposing views, and respect for different perspectives" (597).

3. Angle of Vision and Political Stance

"By 'angle of vision,' we mean the way that a piece of writing gets shaped by the underlying values, assumptions, and beliefs of its author, resulting in a text that reflects a certain perspective, worldview, or belief system.  A text's angle of vision becomes apparent through both internal and external factors" (598).  While you need to be careful, it's okay to use sources that offer a special or unique perspective on an issue.  We recommend using a book called Magazines for Libraries, located at the Raynor Information Desk, to help identify a group's motivation.  The book will tell you the purpose and intended audience of particular magazines and journals.  It will also let you know whether the groups who publish them hold particular political views.

4. Degree of Advocacy

"By 'degree of advocacy,' we mean the extent to which an author unabashedly takes a persuasive stance on a contested position as opposed to adopting a more neutral, objective, or exploratory stance" (600).