Editorial Guidelines
Last updated: June 12, 2026
Spirit Tracker publishes stories about folklore, legends, myths, traditions and the places that keep them. Because our subject sits at the meeting point of history and belief, we hold ourselves to a clear standard so readers always know what they are reading.
1. Folklore is treated as heritage, not spectacle
We do not sensationalise. Our aim is to explain why a story exists and endures, not to frighten readers or exploit a community's beliefs for clicks. We approach living traditions, sacred sites and the people who hold them with respect.
2. We separate history from legend
When we describe something as documented historical fact, it is supported by primary or reputable secondary sources. When we describe something as legend, belief or tradition, we say so plainly. We never present folklore as literal fact, and we never present the supernatural as proven.
3. We cite our sources
Articles draw on academic folklore scholarship, historical archives, ethnographic records and cultural institutions. Substantive factual claims are referenced. Where a claim is contested or unverifiable, we tell the reader rather than smoothing it over.
4. Research and fact-checking process
- Research. Each story begins with primary and academic sources, and — for folklore travel — first-hand reporting from the place itself.
- Drafting. Writers distinguish established history, recorded folklore and interpretation throughout.
- Review. A second editor checks factual claims, sourcing and tone before publication.
- Updates. Articles carry a publication and a "last updated" date. When new evidence emerges or an error is found, we correct the piece and note the change.
5. Corrections
We correct errors promptly and transparently. If you spot a mistake, please contact us and we will review it.
6. Advertising and editorial independence
Spirit Tracker is supported by advertising and, occasionally, affiliate links. Our editorial content is created independently of advertisers. Sponsored content and affiliate links are clearly labelled wherever they appear, and commercial relationships never determine our editorial conclusions.
7. Respect for cultures and beliefs
Many of the traditions we cover are living and sacred to the communities that practise them. We write about them in good faith, avoid mockery, and seek to represent them accurately and fairly.