We can think of critical thinking and asking questions as using a touchstone to determine whether something is made of gold or something fake: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Touchstone_(assaying_tool)

MOST (99%) of "experts" in business or government are busy selling fake and false ideas.

e.g. IPCC is NOT a scientific body but a political body that massages real science to suit its political goals.

So how do we know if experts are speaking the truth?

First, assume that they are lying.

Second, ask basic questions to test the robustness of their claims.