Clickable Strategies List for Detecting Bullshit

If you have read the Actionable Strategies for Detecting Bullshit post and wanted an interactive version of the list, here it is. To refer to the long-form post, click here.

Fact-checking sources

• Verify the Author's Credentials
• Author Evaluation: Background, Qualifications, and Subject Matter Expertise
• Author's Affiliations: Reputable


• Cross-Reference Information
• Multiple Sources: Confirm with multiple sources
• Fact-checking Websites: Use for verification


• Evaluate the Publication
• Publication Evaluation: Assess funding affiliations


• Check Dates and Updates
• Current Information: Ensure up-to-date
• Correction Updates: Look for corrections

Evaluating evidence

• Assess the Quality of Evidence
• Source Type: Primary sources reliable
• Methodology: Rigorous methods used


• Look for Corroborating Evidence
• Other Sources: Support from credible sources
• Single Evidence: Avoid relying solely


• Examine the Data
• Data Analysis: Clear, transparent data
• Cherry-picked Data: Avoid cherry-picking


• Question the Interpretation
• Logical Conclusions: Evaluate interpretation
• Alternative Interpretations: Consider other conclusions

Identifying Logical Fallacies

• Learn Common Logical Fallacies
• Ad Hominem: Attacking character
• Straw Man: Misrepresenting argument
• False Dilemmas: Only two options
• Circular Reasoning: Assumed conclusion


• Analyze Arguments Critically
• Arguments Breakdown: Identify premises, conclusions
• Logical Consistency: Conclusion follows premises


• Watch for Emotional Appeals
• Emotional Manipulation: Beware emotional appeals
• Evaluating Appeals: Ensure logic, evidence


• Recognize Red Herrings
• Identify Diversions: Irrelevant information
• Stay Focused: Core argument, evidence


• Fallacy Identification
• Ad Hominem Attack: Labeling flip-flopper
• Response: Focus on policies
• False Dilemma: Only Two Sides
• Response: Explore nuances
• Red Herring: Divert Attention
• Response: Policy implications

Looking for bias

• Identify Potential Biases
• Author, Publication: Consider biases
• Conflicts of Interest: Identify affiliations


• Analyze Language and Tone
• Language Evaluation: Loaded terms
• Objective Tone: Balanced tone


• Check for Balance
• Multiple Perspectives: Fair representation
• Selective Reporting: Omission of viewpoints


• Skeptical of Simplistic Explanations
• Complex Issues: Beware simplifications
• Nuanced Analyses: Comprehensive perspectives

To visit the Actionable Strategies for Detecting Bullshit article, click here.