As we live in an information age, data has become one of the most valuable assets. It is produced and consumed at levels beyond comprehension on a daily basis. Moreover, almost every person who has internet access may make a contribution to the global database. However, such data is too big and diverse to be appropriately controlled and moderated. Therefore, there is a significant amount of information that is incorrect or even completely false.
It may also be challenging to identify experts who provide credible information. To some extent, if a person is not able to experimentally verify the information and receive consistent results, the only two options are to believe blindly or not believe them. The extreme example of such mistrust may be represented by conspiracy theories. Hence, it may be vitally important to design criteria that can be used to identify credible experts.
First, it may be rational to assess information that was provided by a particular expert previously. Ideally, such information should be easy to verify or test experimentally. Second, it is essential to pay attention to the provided justification or supporting information. In the case of science, rational explanations and the use of reliable statistical data may indicate credibility. The credibility of the expert in a scientific field is also closely linked with the quality of education.
By contrast, in farming or in sports, experience may be more important than theoretical knowledge. Another essential criterion for credibility is related to the personal achievements of the expert. It is particularly relevant for experts in the field of business. For instance, a successful business person with extensive practical knowledge and high achievements in the area may be more reliable than any other source.