Biological Anthropology: Peer Review

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When evaluating the credibility of information there are several key areas to consider:

Authority

• Who is the author? What are his or her credentials? Is the author associated with a reputable organization?
• Who is the publisher? (Commercial publisher, university press, professional organization?)
• What is the intent of the publisher? (Sell magazines, share research, promote a product?)

Objectivity

• Does the author state the goals of this publication? (To inform, advocate, persuade?)
• Does the author or publisher express an opinion (example: newspaper editorial) or is the information factual (like statistics)?
• Is there any advertising presented with the information?
• Does the information appear to be valid and well-researched? Are conclusions supported by evidence?
• Are opposing arguments addressed?

Quality

• What type of source is it? (Book, magazine, journal, web site)?
• Is it well organized and clearly written? Are arguments presented logically?
• Is the information accurate? Are facts documented? Are authoritative sources cited?

Coverage

• How in-depth is the material?
• Does it offer information not found elsewhere?
• Is the material primary or secondary in nature?

Currency

• Is the information’s publishing date current enough for the topic of the research paper?
• Is your topic one that requires current information?
• Has the source been revised or updated?

Audience

• Who is the information written for — a specific readership, level of expertise or age/grade level?
• Is the audience focus appropriate for a research paper?