Method · version 1

How Lens is made

Lens does not promise neutrality or perfect truth. It promises to show the evidence and clearly separate source material, claims and our explanation.

1. Start with evidence people can check

We begin with original documents and sources close to the event. Important factual statements should link to evidence. Repeating a statement does not make it true.

2. Choose real views

Each view represents a clear set of experiences, interests and assumptions. It does not treat a person, group or country as if everyone thinks in the same way. We ask what each view explains well and what it may miss.

3. Show what kind of statement it is

• Supported by source: an original source directly supports the statement.
• Reported: a reliable source reports the statement.
• Claimed: a person or organisation makes the statement.
• Disputed: reliable evidence or people involved disagree with the statement.
• Lens explanation: Lens explains the meaning of established information.
• Lens conclusion: Lens reaches a conclusion that the source does not state directly.
• Unknown: the available evidence does not establish an answer.

4. Do not give every statement equal weight

Showing different views does not mean every statement is equally strong. When evidence strongly supports one conclusion, Lens says so. When evidence does not settle a disagreement, Lens keeps the disagreement visible.

5. Show how the issue was made

Each issue lists its sources, publication date and method limits. The words “Powered by ZAK” will appear only when ZAK has genuinely governed the work and produced a record. The current sample does not make that claim.

Corrections

Send the source and the exact correction to support@zakgov.com. We will note important corrections instead of changing them without notice.