Principlev1
When encountering a new schema, evaluate it laterally by
When encountering a new schema, evaluate it laterally by investigating the source's track record and independent assessments rather than vertically by analyzing only the schema's internal coherence.
Why This Is a Principle
Derives from Schemas as Knowledge Organization Structures (schemas organize knowledge) and The world is too vast, time too constrained, and individual (trust required for most beliefs). Prescribes a specific evaluation methodology (lateral reading) that professional fact-checkers use. Highly actionable—tells you WHERE to look (outside the source) rather than just that you should evaluate.