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Misinformation, Disinformation, and Malinformation: An Informational Guide

How do you determine if a news source is reliable and factual? This in-depth guide will help you learn more about distorted information as it can appear in the media, as well as how to spot it.

Opinions in Opposition

Text: "Opinions in opposition: Research Strategies." Background of a wooden chessboard.

Opinions in Opposition

When it comes to hot button issues, it can be difficult to find reliable information and form your own opinions - especially when perspectives on the topic are in strong opposition to each other.

Keep in mind that there is often no "right" perspective on any given social, political, or moral argument. These discussions can be highly contextual, and opinions are often shaped by a person's individual beliefs, experiences, and understanding of the topic as a whole. However, those perspectives can be shaped by correct information, or incorrect information. It's very important to know how to separate reliable sources from unreliable ones, particularly if your inquiry is academic in nature.

Review the resources below to learn how to evaluate sources for their reliability and applicability to your research, as well as how to check yourself for unintentional biases that can skew your understanding or perspective of a topic.


Information in this guide is based on a related guide developed by librarians at Washtenaw Community College. Click here to access WCC's content.