Bias in the News

The term "media bias" is almost as prolific these days as the term "fake news". It is now part of the public's discourse about news media. However, like the term "fake news", it's used without much thought of what it actually means, and can mean something different depending on the context in which it's used in.

In this lesson, we take a closer look at the term "bias" and try and present a clearer definition of it to use in the context of news media literacy.

It's important to remember that bias denotes a PATTERN of behavior. Bias is not an isolated event. It must be proved by a set of previous actions.

A single unfair story could be attributed to a number of things -- speed, sloppiness, or just a mistake. A pattern of those stories might tell you that something bigger is going on.

Similar to an accusation of lying, an accusation of bias needs some evidence of a motive to mislead.

And, in determining a lie, while we can’t look into someone’s head and find that motive, we can look at what they have done in the past to see if there is evidence of a particular predisposition or prejudice. That is why, it's can be so difficult for journalists to use the term "lie".

In the context of bias, we're looking for the intentional discrimination against or for a particular viewpoint in making a statement or putting together a story, again and again, using unfair tactics in order to do so.

So, how do you spot bias?

Just as we offer ways to find fairness, we offer ways to think and speak skillfully about bias. Bias is easy to allege, but without evidence, it amounts to little more than name-calling and we both know that you're much better than that.

To spot bias:

• Look for a consistent pattern of unfairness over time.

• Compare news reports from a variety of sources, especially to search for a bias by omission. Is something missing from a particular outlets report on the same subject?

• Take note of the self-interest of those alleging bias. Are they advocates for journalistic excellence, or are they directly affected by the story (financially, romantically)?