Lateral reading is a reading technique that involves evaluating the credibility, intent, and biases of an author and their work by searching for information about the source while reading it. This technique helps readers determine the reliability of the information they are consuming and gain a better understanding of the topic at hand.
Here are the key steps and benefits of lateral reading:
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Verify evidence: By comparing the information from multiple sources, readers can assess the validity of the evidence presented in the original source.
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Contextualize information: Lateral reading allows readers to understand the perspective from which the sites analyses come and if the site has an editorial process or expert.
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Find potential weaknesses: By examining different sources, readers can identify any potential weaknesses in the original source, such as biased reporting or incomplete information.
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Understand the author's credibility: Lateral reading helps readers assess the author's expertise and credibility by researching their background and qualifications.
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Evaluate the source's authority: By checking what other digital sources say about a website, readers can determine the authority and reliability of the source.
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Determine the source's purpose: Lateral reading allows readers to understand the intent and biases of the source by examining its funding, sponsorship, and affiliations.
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Synthesize sources: Lateral reading involves comparing and contrasting the work of other scholars to provide new insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.
