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Standards and Methodology

SageCitizen Fairness Framework

SageCitizen’s distinctive contribution lies not in information production but rather in standards formation and application.  Specifically, it emphasizes clear and consistent standards for objectivity and analytical clarity. 

Applying consistent evaluative standards may at times lead to conclusions that are uncomfortable in parts of the political spectrum.  SageCitizen recognizes this but is dedicated to the primacy of fairness and intellectual rigor.

SageCitizen applies the following analytical criteria when assessing public claims, decisions and institutions.

  • Reversal Test

  • Mirror Test

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Would I use this exact analytical approach if the party labels were switched?

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  • Steelman Requirement

Would I accept public criticism based on this same analytical approach?

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What is the strongest legitimate defense I can make for what I am criticizing?

  • Symmetry Audit

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Am I building an outsized collection of criticisms of any particular individual, agency or administration?

  • Language Filter

NOTE:  This audit will be quantified by logging criticism frequency per entity and issue, to detect over-concentration.

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Does my writing contain emotional cues?

  • Sarcasm

  • Contempt

  • Mockery

  • Hyperbole

  • Adjectives of moral disgust

  • Certainty language (“obvious,” clearly,” “everyone knows,” etc.).

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  • Institution versus Person Rule

Does my writing contain partisan labeling language that signals partisan identity rather than analytical rigor?

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Am I critiquing actions, decisions, policies, claims or measurable outcomes against impartial criteria and standards?

  • Falsifiability Test

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  • Partisanship Guardrail

What evidence would prove me wrong?

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  • Delay Requirement

Am I prepared and willing to challenge the viewpoint of my audience?

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Have I waited 24 hours or more between final draft and publication, to forestall emotional intensity?

For high-salience topics have I obtained additional review?

Further, SageCitizen will apply the following content template to all of its analytical work:

  • Does the work include the following?

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Issue description (neutral tone)

Stated claim or action

Applicable standards (pre-declared)

Strongest opposing interpretation

Evidence analysis

Provisional conclusion

Evidence that could change the assessment

Citation of all sources, including AI

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