Assessing the credibility of information sources in times of uncertainty: online debate about Finland's NATO membership

Purpose This article aims to elaborate the context-sensitive nature of credibility assessment by examining how such judgments are made in online discussion times uncertainty caused Finland's intent join North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) spring 2022. Design/methodology/approach The empirical findings draw on qualitative content analysis 3,324 posts submitted a Finnish February–March It was examined participants assess information sources referred debates NATO membership. is assumed that believability author indicative his or her expert power, for example based credentials scholar, while content, provision factual evidence source's informational power. Findings Political decision-makers, particularly President Finland were assessed as most credible sources, due their access confidential knowledge and long-time experience politics. assessments differed more strongly judging researchers. On one hand, expertise praised; other doubts presented about partiality. Fellow negatively because these types associated with low Research limitations/implications As study concentrated group, cannot be extended concern occurring contexts. Originality/value among first characterize role power uncertainty.