Media Bias

What is bias?

Most broadly, bias is another word for opinion. More specifically, it means an opinion that shows prejudice in favor of or against something or someone. Everyone has biases, but in research it is important to figure out what a writer’s bias is in order to be able to separate fact from opinion. Depending on the bias used in writing an article or book, the same facts can reach very different conclusions. 

 

When discussing the news and media we generally refer to 5 media bias ratings.

These are: Left, Left Leaning, Center, Right Leaning, and Right.

Check out AllSides Links to an external site. to learn more about media bias and familiarize yourself with the biases present in our major news outlets.

 

Here are some questions to ask yourself while reading to help determine bias:

1. Who wrote the piece?
2. Is there diversity in their sources?
3. Do they use double-standards or stereotypes?
4. Are there unchallenged assumptions and/or a lack of context to the story?
5. Do they use language loaded with buzzwords (i.e. “racial preference programs” vs “affirmative action”)?
6. Looking at the publication’s website or at the aforementioned All Sides website will provide additional insights as to the bias likely present in a piece.