Final answer:
True, considering the author's credentials and recognition by other scholars is essential in evaluating a source's authority. One should investigate the author's expertise, biases, and whether their work has been peer-reviewed to assess the credibility of information.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the authority of a source, it is indeed true that you should ask questions about the author and whether they are recognized by other scholars in the field. Questions about the author's credentials and scholarly recognition are crucial in assessing the reliability and credibility of information, especially in academic research. To evaluate sources effectively, investigate the author to determine if they are an impartial expert and look for any potential biases they might have. It is also important to check if the work is peer-reviewed or represents an individual's opinion. Researching the author's background and contributions to the field, the publisher of the work, and even the URL can provide insight into the trustworthiness of the source. Additionally, reading multiple sources and comparing coverage can help validate the information presented and uncover any significant omissions. Finding better coverage by searching reviews or critiques of both the website and the authors on reputable sites and understanding the hierarchy of sources can aid in distinguishing between authoritative and questionable sources. A thorough examination includes reviewing the internal consistency of the information, the author's broader body of work, and how other experts view their contributions.