Some Philosophical Thoughts on the Reliability of Information

Abstract

How can one determine whether or not the information obtained from print media sources such as newspapers, novels, and the internet is accurate? What methods are available for this examination? A vast variety of practical domains are encompassed by the field of library and information science. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the study of the theory of knowledge in relation to eyewitness testimony, and more specifically the examination of the scholarly writings of David Hume and Alvin Goldman, can provide crucial insights in this particular circumstance. According to the findings of the current study, there are four essential aspects that must be taken into consideration when determining the reliability of information. These aspects are as follows: (i) the endorsement and plausibility of authoritative sources; (ii) the method in which information is presented; (iii) independent verification; and (iv) the coherence of the presentation. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the incorporation of philosophical disciplines into the instructional strategies utilized by information professionals, with the primary objective of enhancing students' capacity to exercise critical thinking when analyzing information. In general, this presentation includes a discussion of a wide variety of additional approaches that information professionals can and should utilize to assist users in determining the dependability of a certain source of information.

Keywords- Philosophical, Reliability of Information