Defining Expertise

Expertise is the ability to inform others on a particular subject with 

credibility and accuracy from previously acquired knowledge. 

The State of Expertise in the Public Sphere

The advent of the internet as a primary news source has contributed to the decline and overall effectiveness of credible science. Transfer of knowledge has become more accessible than ever, (anyone can make a public YouTube video or a social media post) and there has been an increase in confirmation biases between credible information and the outstanding beliefs of people. Confirmation biases are a cause for increased concern regarding the impact misinformation has on the general public. Opinions are shared and interpreted as concrete facts, with no consideration towards their validity, while the actual science behind certain topics goes unnoticed. As the emphasis on equality as an ideal has risen, so has the notion that everyone’s ideas and opinions are also equal. The belief that everyone should have equal opinions on all topics is a justification for ignorance. Opinions formed with insufficient knowledge and a disregard for facts contributes to perpetuating ignorance. Knowledge of a certain topic has become something to have rather than something that one continues to develop (Nichols 7). The importance of expertise is in the willingness of an individual to learn, rather than maintain their basis of knowledge in stubborn ignorance. Circulating information driven by expertise is difficult to achieve in a world where people insist on maintaining their incorrect beliefs. A stronger emphasis on eliminating the conflict between what people think they know, versus what they do know, is necessary within the public sphere. Openness to expertise is essential to the dissemination of credible and accurate information.

Strategies to Improve Expertise

Understanding and attributing expertise to academic writing or other professional endeavors will enhance the quality of work. Expertise can be practiced through careful examination of information and sources. Cross-referencing sources and evidence as well as acknowledging opposing viewpoints is a crucial aspect. When researching a certain subject, multiple sources should be consulted and reviewed for any matching or conflicting information. Reviewing multiple sources is also crucial for finding the primary source to which other authors are referring. Finding the primary source will increase existing knowledge of the topics being researched. Another important aspect of expertise is considering all sides of the argument. The ability to address a counterargument while simultaneously using that information to strengthen the main argument will add a level of credibility which is important to expertise. Furthermore, expanding knowledge on the subject as a whole will help cultivate an overall argument with all perspectives being considered. When researching, the credentials of authors should be heavily considered. Credible authors will have relevant knowledge and experience in the field they are writing about. Experts will also have publications in peer-reviewed journals and affiliations with reputable institutions. The use of proper citations, a consistent and objective tone, and a history of contributions to the field all enhance the credibility of the author's work. Understanding the information that is being researched and the skill to explain a complex topic in simple terms shows mastery and demonstrates a proficient understanding of any subject which poses as one key component to expertise.