Hints for

Detecting Bias

  • Does the information being looked at have a bias?

Hint: If the information deals with a controversial topic, look for an identification of the author's bias.

  • Is there a commercial or organizational interest associated with the information being read?

Hint: Be aware that organizations, businesses, and individuals represent their own viewpoints in information presented through their articles. Organizations with a particular mission (i.e., environmental organizations) may publish only information that supports their point of view. Businesses may publish positive reviews of their own products and events. Also, be aware that a personal information article may reflect strong political, religious, or social opinions of the author.

  • Are there advertisements in this information? Is the article actually an ad disguised as information?

Hint: Sometimes this is obvious; other times it may be very subtle. Look at the source of the information.

  • Is the information based on verifiable facts or opinions?
    Hint: Look for bibliographies and references to other reliable publications.
  • Are inflammatory words, phrases or profanity used in the article?

Hint: Look for personal attacks, ridicule and the use of emotional appeals rather than rational ones.

  • Are misleading or deceptive arguments used?

Hint: Look for over-simplification of information, scare tactics, testimonials, over-generalizations, categorical statements, and exaggerations that are intended to persuade.

  • Are there fallacies in arguments and reasoning?

Hint: Look for distorted data, information presented out-of-context, unstated assumptions, and bandwagon persuasion techniques. This can lead to unintentionally viewing information out-of-context. Go back to the top of the page and read the purpose of the information.

  • Are stereotypes or ethnocentric arguments used within the information given?

Hint: Look for words that indicate a negative attitude or a dislike for a sexual, racial or religious group. Take a close look at slang or jargon to make sure that a negative or superior point of view is not being expressed.

A Checklist

___ 1.Are there advertisements on the page?

___ 2. Does an individual, an organization, or a business support the information?

___ 3.Is the information given based on verifiable facts or opinion?

___ 4.Is there a reference source or bibliographical information?

___ 5.Are inflammatory words or phrases used in the article?

___ 6. Are there "emotional" words or phrases, or words that indicate ridicule?

___ 7.Are there misleading or deceptive arguments used?

___ 8.Is there an oversimplification of information, exaggeration, or are scare tactics used?

___ 9.Are there fallacies in arguments and reasoning?

___ 10. Are there unstated assumptions, distorted data, or is information presented outofcontext?

___ 11.Do the arguments use stereotypes?

___ 12. Is there an expression of dislike for and/feeling of superiority over a particular sex?

___ 13. Does the information provided indicate a belief that one's race, religion or culture is superior?

___ 14.Can you determine the author’s purpose for writing this information?

Does this information have a bias? ______