Your best bet is always to evaluate the resources you find for yourself. Apply the CRAAP test when possible. Do your due diligence. If you can't take the time to research the details, DON'T USE THEM in a conversation or argument.
That said, there are some surefire things to keep in mind when researching any topic.
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1. Look for data-driven studies.
2. Pay attention to who is funding the research.
3. Dig into the author or creator of the piece to determine their expertise.
4. COMPARE DETAILS WITH OTHER SOURCES; the best way to determine accuracy is to compare and contrast multiple, unique sources of information. Just make sure that the publications you utilize aren't all hosted by the same publishing body--that might decrease legitimacy.
Finding Useful Resources About Vaping
Look for articles with plenty of citations to viable-looking resources. Look for articles hosted by organizations with a solid reputation in the medical field. Watch out for resources that may be 1) hosted by tobacco corporations 2) promoted by sensationalist news sources and 3) trying to sell something (often another "alternative" to vaping).
Let's talk about the process of evaluating a source.
Access the following: Is Vaping Safer than Smoking Cigarettes?, an article from the National Center for Health Research. Click here to access the site.
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Some questions to ask ourselves:
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1. Who funds The NCHR?
2. Where is the information in the article coming from? Can it be traced?
3. How current are the linked resources?
4. Do the article authors have a solid reputation?
5. Why does this article exist?
Now consider a newer resource from the same site: What Does Vaping Do To Your Lungs? Here’s What We Know. Click here to access the site.
1. Does the linked CDC report have viability? Why or why not?
2. Does the research in this area seem complete to you? Why or why not?
3. What are some directions you might take in terms of research after reading this article to find what you need?