Being a Critical Reader - continued

Study this advertisement and then consider the following questions.

You can test these claims by asking yourself a series of questions:

• Is the person making the claim an expert in that particular area of science?
  Answer: No, he/she is a salesperson, not a scientist.

• Does the product work the way it is supposed to?
  Answer: No, images by themselves do not make good science.

• How do you know the product works safely?
  Answer: If half the rats died after moderate exposure, you shouldn’t go near the stuff.

• Did the evidence being presented come from scientific experiments that support the product or from personal testimonials?
  Answer: personal testimonials

With some careful thought and consideration, you can become a more critical reader. Being able to read critically is also a very useful consumer skill, as you will have better information by which to make your purchasing decisions and avoid unhealthy trends. And when conducting research, you will be able to make sure you’re getting the facts you need. Just remember: don’t trust everything you read without first deciding if it’s fact or opinion!