Re: Genealogy
Genealogical Standards and Guidelines
Standards For Sound Genealogical Research
Recommended by the National Genealogical Society
Remembering always that they are engaged in a quest for truth, family
history researchers consistently-
record the source for each item of information they collect.
test every hypothesis or theory against credible evidence, and reject those
that are not supported by the evidence.
seek original records, or reproduced images of them when there is reasonable
assurance they have not been altered, as the basis for their research
conclusions.
use compilations, communications and published works, whether paper or
electronic, primarily for their value as guides to locating the original
records.
state something as a fact only when it is supported by convincing evidence,
and identify the evidence when communicating the fact to others.
limit with words like "probable" or "possible" any statement that is
based
on less than convincing evidence, and state the reasons for concluding that
it is probable or possible.
avoid misleading other researchers by either intentionally or carelessly
distributing or publishing inaccurate information.
state carefully and honestly the results of their own research, and
acknowledge all use of other researchers' work.
recognize the collegial nature of genealogical research by making their work
available to others through publication, or by placing copies in appropriate
libraries or repositories, and by welcoming critical comment.
consider with open minds new evidence or the comments of others on their
work and the conclusions they have reached.
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©1997 by National Genealogical Society. Permission is granted to copy or
publish this material provided it is reproduced in its entirety, including
this notice.