Which type of source is considered credible?

A study from a respected journal with peer-review is considered credible because the peer-review process is designed to ensure the research is evaluated and vetted by experts in the field before it is published. This process helps to maintain a high standard of quality, rigor, and reliability in academic research. Peer-reviewed journals typically require studies to undergo thorough scrutiny regarding their methodology, findings, and relevance, providing a level of assurance that the conclusions drawn are based on sound evidence.

In contrast, articles from personal blogs, while they may be authored by experts, often lack the same level of scrutiny and validation. Studies conducted by underqualified researchers may not adhere to rigorous research standards, and reports funded by pharmaceutical companies can introduce bias, especially if the outcomes are favorable to the sponsor’s interests, thus affecting objectivity. Therefore, peer-reviewed studies from respected journals are the gold standard of credible sources in research.