You’ve Discovered a Piece of Controversial Information. Now What?

We live in an interesting era, where the truth is often distorted by the media, and where even hard facts can be disputed if it goes against someone’s agenda. Trust in the media isn’t quite at an all-time low, but it’s not far from it either; that’s because fake news continues to be prominent, most major news outlets suffer from some kind of inherent political bias, and some invested zealots will do whatever it takes to bury information that goes against their core motives. 

So what should you do if you discover a piece of controversial information? In your daily life, or as you do independent research on the internet, you may discover an important fact or perspective that goes against the mainstream narrative, or that contradicts a typical viewpoint. How should you handle this discovery, and where can you report on it? 

Verify the Information 

First, it’s important to verify that your information is accurate, which isn’t always easy. If you’re reading a website, see what type of information they’ve posted in the past, and whether their credentials are firmly established or tenuous at best. If you’re relying on someone’s eyewitness testimony or personal assertion, you’ll have to use your best judgment. The more independent sources you can find verifying the information, the more confident you can be in the information. 

Submit or Publish the Information 

Next, it’s your responsibility to make other people aware that this information exists. Depending on your circumstances and your prior experience, you can take charge in distributing the information directly, or rely on someone else to help you do it. For example, if you’re an experienced writer, you could print your own booklets, explaining the topic in depth, or write an article that you submit to an online publisher willing to report on the facts. 

If you have less experience in the field, it’s better to contact a journalist and have them report on the information for you. Many news and media outlets have contact pages where you can get in touch with an editor or writer, and make them aware of new information. Through this outlet, you can be assured your information will be incorporated in an article that matches the style of your intended publication site, and in a professional framework. 

Pay Attention 

After your information is published or distributed in some way, you’ll want to pay close attention to both mainstream and independent news on the topic in the weeks and months that follow. Chances are, if your information is controversial, there will be articles that emerge both supporting and contradicting your claim. If you’re interested in getting to the heart of the matter, make sure you review both types. 

Depending on your interest level, it’s also prudent to follow up with your own line of research. Contact other people who might be more involved with the topic at hand, and see what other authorities have to say about the matter. You may realize the subject goes far deeper than you originally thought, or is underreported in mainstream news channels. 

The Importance of Reporting the Facts

The whole purpose of journalism is to report on facts and help people understand matters that might otherwise be inaccessible to them. It’s our obligation as independent thinkers and writers to report on what we find, even if it’s going to be challenged or met with criticism. That’s why outlets like DavidIcke.com exist, to report on facts even when they don’t fit the established narrative.