Question

Sharon reads two different articles about avocados. The first article, in a weight-loss magazine, claims that avocados are unhealthy because they are high in fat. The second article, in an annual publication from a doctors’ group, claims that the fat in avocados is a type that is good for the heart.

To assess these claims, which question might Sharon ask?

Which source do avocados come from?
Where are avocados sold?
Is the source an authority on the subject?

Answer 1

Is the source an authority on the subject?

This helps Sharon judge credibility and possible bias (a doctors’ group has more medical expertise than a diet magazine), and it prompts checking the actual evidence and conflicts of interest.