I just posted this to help all of us learn how to sift through the BS -
5 Questions to ask when evaluating News Stories
1. Who is reporting it and what’s their angle? Always check the source. Is it an outlet known to lean Left, Right, or sensationalist? Look at the track record of the news source. Their editorial history can give clear signs whether they are pushing a narrative or giving you straight facts.
2. What is the evidence behind the claim? Look for specifics – quotes, data, documents, or eyewitness accounts. Research those eyewitnesses to understand whether they represent a specific narrative as well. If the outlet uses vague “sources say” statements, that should be an immediate red flag. Like the old Wendy’s commercial – ask yourself, “Where’s the beef?”
3. What am I not seeing? Compare the news to other reports on the same event, even opposing news outlets. If key details – like context, opposing or conflicting accounts, or the other side’s point of view – are not included in a news story, it is likely curated to steer you, not inform you.
4. How fresh is the news, and has it been verified? When receiving breaking news, always wait before sharing, to ensure that it has been fact-checked or verified. So often, early reports get details wrong, and initial assumptions can be wrong. Wait for the dust to settle and don’t get played by your own snap judgments.
5. Why does this feel urgent or emotional? Algorithms are set to produce engagement. Engagement can be either pro or con. When you see an outrageous claim, and you agree with it, you will like or share it. When you disagree with it, you may share it with an outraged comment of your own. Either way, you are engaging and doing precisely what the media wants you to do.
This really does not pass the smell test. I think we need to see more concrete evidence and less emotional appeal.
This is why /Conspiracy exists!
You don’t think it’s possible officials can blackmail?
I wouldn’t rule it out considering what we know about clandestine operations over the last 50 years even including much worse things like drugging folks (MK ultra)
6. Follow the money (which should be #1)
Thank you. Well done. The story Sounds like BS to me. I would note that being pro-Israel got his dad killed
and a sixth question specific to Free Republic:
6. Who is posting this article on FR and what is their record of posting bullshit and/or nonsense and/or obvious propaganda?