In theory, we should all be able to evaluate the validity data on our own, so this tactic is dumb.<p>In reality, we have no practical way of doing this. So, whenever we cite a source of data, we are implicitly saying &quot;This is a credible source for the statement is making. You can trust that they have done the work to make sure they aren&#x27;t just repeating their own biases.&quot; And in the case of some organizations and people, you actually cannot say that.<p>If the American milk board makes a claim about the health benefits of milk, it is not a fallacy to be skeptical of that claim.