What are Reliable sources?

Firstly, what is a source? A source is where the material comes from. For example, a source could be a book or a webpage. A source can be reliable or unreliable for the material it is meant to support. Some sources, such as unpublished texts and an editor's own personal experience, are prohibited.

What is a Reliable source? A reliable source is one that is recognized as academically credible and adheres to established scientific research standards. Such sources are typically published by reputable academic institutions, peer-reviewed journals, or recognized experts in the field.

To qualify as reliable, a source should:

1. Be Based on Verifiable Facts: Reliable sources present information supported by empirical evidence, ensuring that claims can be substantiated through observation, experimentation, or credible documentation. This means that the data or arguments put forth can be independently verified by other researchers or readers.

2. Avoid Pseudohistorical Claims: It is crucial that the information presented does not include unfounded or misleading assertions that lack historical backing. Pseudohistory often distorts facts or fabricates narratives to serve specific ideological purposes, which can lead to misunderstanding and misinformation about historical events.

3. Contribute to Accurate Knowledge: By adhering to these standards, reliable sources help build a foundation of accurate and trustworthy knowledge. This, in turn, allows scholars, students, and the general public to engage with historical topics with a clear understanding of the facts and context, promoting informed discussions and further research.

In summary, reliable sources are essential for advancing our understanding of historical issues, as they ensure the integrity and accuracy of the information we rely upon. By prioritizing such sources in research and discussions, we can foster a more accurate and nuanced understanding of history.

For example things such as the Albanians or Illyrians being descended from the Pelasgians are an Outdated theory that isn't academically supported.

It’s best to rely on sources published after 1960 and to utilize secondary sources when examining ancient texts from authors like Herodotus, Livy, etc... as modern authors often provide valuable interpretations and insights into the writings of ancient authors.

If a source is published by reputable institutions such as Oxford or Harvard in the 21st century, it is expected to be free from pseudo-history and to meet academic standards of acceptance.