Detecting Bias     Library Home | Site Map | Contact Us
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Bias is a preference, inclination, interest or prejudice that affects what we see, how we write, and how we decide. We all see and use biased information everyday; it is unavoidable. The key is identifying the biases in ourselves and in others and honestly disclosing possible slants. Make a conscious effort to find accurate information and be as fair and balanced as possible. 

What kinds of bias are there?

Geographical   Economic   Professional   Financial
Political   Commercial   Temporal   Educational
Religious   Social   Visual   ...and others
Accuracy in Media
Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting (FAIR)
Journalism Ethics Cases Online (Indiana U)
News Bias Explored (U Mich)
State of the News Media (Annual Report)

 

 
How does bias show itself in information?  
 
Word Choice - Subtle differences in expressions, syntax and diction can signal bias. Look for differences when comparing two articles on the same subject.
Omitted Information - Stories, facts and details need to be complete and verified to offer the most objective and informed picture. Omissions--intentional and unintentional--create slanted and/or incomplete pictures. Watch for differing information and the use of anonymous information for clues.     
Framing - Framing is about context and how information is presented. Facts may be presented, but they may be put into a context/situation/pattern that emphasizes or de-emphasizes certain elements. Framing can be committed by manipulating the ideas or the actual physical location of an article.
Sources - Where is the article getting its information? Fair reporting will offer information that comes from a multitude of sources (most of them identifiable) and a variety of constituencies. Relying on just one source or unnamed sources can compromise reliability. Using sources with a vested interest in the topic or omitting source affiliations can slant.
Spin - Offering details or perspectives favorable to one side without adequate time/space/debate for alternate views.
 

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This page was updated on 09/27/06