Purpose

Purpose as a criterion deals with "the reason the information exists."

Questions to ask [from Chico]:

  • What is the purpose of the information? to inform? teach? sell? entertain? persuade?
  • Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
  • Is the information fact? opinion? propaganda?
  • Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
  • Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases?
When looking at web sites, keep in mind that there are hoaxes out there with the intention of tricking you.

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