We are in a volatile time that polarizes and confuses global citizens. I changed by voter registration in 2016 to "no party." I don't know who to believe or trust anymore. It's just a crazy fucking mess.
Mainstream media lost credibility with me the day a British news correspondent reported from New York City on 911. She reported that authorities confirmed that WTC Building #7 collapsed while clearly, it was still standing in the panoramic background. I rationalized away thoughts of a manipulative shadow force puppeting media to control public thought. Over the years, I conquered my cognitive dissonance and came to accept the reality through the internet's growth and globally shared responsibility for monitoring and reporting on what's real vs. propaganda.
I am challenged with sorting out reliable and viable sources from those that are attention-seeking or purposefully placed by the powers that should not be for disseminating disinformation. I just want the truth dammit!
My signs for questionable sources are:
- Over-the-top sensationalism
- Dramatic fearmongering
- Speculation without solid source and evidence
- Aggressive sentiment
- Fanaticism - too left, too right, too anything... I do not trust.
- Closed to objective and fair criticism or debate
- Diverting from the facts and skirting around answering legitimately good questions
My sort-of signs for trustworthy sources (I say sort-of because I can never ever really know):
- Willingness to explore all angles
- Ability to respectfully disagree
- A commitment to fact checking and verification
- A genuine attitude conveying a desire to inform and not intimidate
- The willingness to accept open discussion for sake of understanding different perspectives
- Collaboration with other sources and the public to complete the picture (instead of assume the picture)
All said, I open the discussion for other Steemians to share their criteria on trustworthy news sources. I ask for participation for the benefit of the collective common good of this community. Thank you and I appreciate your input.