© by Mike Keenan

1. knowledgeable?
2. unprejudiced?
3. honest?
4. consistent?

2. Is it valid? Does it tell the truth?

If data or statistics are presented, are they sound?

1. gathered scientifically without bias?
2. reported accurately without being distorted?
3. representative of a large population or only a minority?

3. Is it objective?

Does it measure what it is supposed to measure?

a) are there enough pertinent examples to support the conclusion?

b) is each individual case documented and related to the whole?

c) have reasonable alternatives been considered?

d) has it been shown that a specific event caused a specific result?

e) if analogy was used, were any essential differences overlooked?

f) is the evidence consistent and were standardized methods used to obtain it?

4. Is it up-to-date? Normative?

Does it reveal the actual situation or is it ancient history?

1. if rapid change is not happening in this area, older evidence may be permissible.
2. ask for specific documentation, specific areas of applicable treaties, conventions, etc.
3. have enough examples been provided?
4. is the evidence based upon a wide distribution of the population?