Determining Source Credibility
To determine the credibility of a source, it’s important to know whether or not the writer or publication is reputable, the information in the source is reliable, and the ideas presented are logical, verifiable, and pertinent.
The first source I decided to use is a 2007 article regarding Denzel Washington’s desire to direct. This article, written by Terry Armour, is from a nationally-renowned publication, which is extremely reputable. The information contained in this source is extremely reliable, as it is based on an in-person interview between the writer and Denzel Washington, as well as several actors and actresses in the movie discussed. The ideas presented in this article are very logical and pertinent, as they directly relate to Denzel’s personal motivations. The ideas are also thoroughly verifiable, because they came directly from the actor, himself.The second source I decided to use is a 2002 Entertainment Weekly article about Denzel Washington, following the premier of a film he directed, “Antwone Fisher”. This article is from a reputable publication (Entertainment Weekly), one of the most respected publications in the entertainment industry. The information in this source is reliable, as it is a direct interview with Denzel Washington. The ideas presented are logical and pertinent, as they include Denzel’s personal feelings and experiences as an actor and director.
The third source I decided to use is a 1995 Ebony magazine article about Denzel Washington. This source is a reputable publication within the African American community, and the mainstream media, overall. The information contained within this article is very reliable, as it is a direct interview with Denzel Washington. The ideas in this article are both logical and pertinent, because they directly discuss his personal life, his rise to stardom, and how he feels about all of it.
The fourth source I decided to use is a 2007 Wall Street Journal article about Denzel Washington directing “The Great Debaters”. This source is one of the most reputable publications within the United States, as well as the oldest publication of my cited sources. The information contained in this article is reliable, because it is directly quoted from an interview with Denzel Washington. The article presents ideas that are both pertinent and logical, because they are Denzel’s feelings and experiences as a director for “The Great Debaters”.
The fifth (final) source I decided to use is a 1998 article by the Film Society of Lincoln Center, discussing the fact that Denzel Washington is the “new Paul Newman” (as opposed to Tom Cruise). This source is very reputable, as it is published by one of the most respected societies in the U.S., relating to the film industry. The information is reliable, because it cites several verifiable resources and includes direct quotes from industry professionals. The ideas in this source are logical and pertinent, because they directly relate toe Denzel’s rise through stardom.
Obviously, when deciding which sources to use for a paper, it’s vital to thoroughly research the reputation of the publication, the author, and the information itself. With just a small amount of research and effort, the results are very rewarding, and can lead to a much more convincing, reliable paper for the student.
