https://www.edu.gov.mb.ca/k12/cur/socstud/foundation_gr9/blms/9-1-3g.pdf
Detecting Bias in the Media
Media bias is ubiquitous (everywhere) and not easy to
detect. It is always useful to compare several sources of
information and, in doing so, it becomes clear that media
coverage is never completely objective.
Here are some forms of media bias to watch for:
• Bias by omission: For every news story that is selected, there are many others that are left
out. Do the news stories you see show a balanced view of real life? What are the
characteristics they have in common? (e.g., Are they mostly about violence, famous people,
wealth?) Do some news sources include items that are ignored by others?
• Bias by emphasis: What stories are on the front page or “at the top of the hour?” Which
stories get the largest headlines, or the first and longest coverage on TV or radio? Consider
how this placement influences people’s sense of what is important.
• Bias by use of language: The use of labels such as “terrorist,” “revolutionary,” or “freedom
fighter” can create completely different impressions of the same person or event.
• Bias in photos: Unflattering pictures can create bad impressions, and partial pictures of
scenes can completely change the context of an event.
• Bias in the source: An article about a cure for cancer written by a drug company is not the
same as an article by an independent researcher. Often, private companies, governments,
public relations firms, and political groups produce press releases to gain media exposure and
to influence the public.
• Bias by headlines: Some headlines can be deceptive, as their main purpose is to grab
attention. Many people read only the headlines, which can create a distorted sense of what is
really going on, or turn a non-event into a sensational event.
• Bias by repetition: The repetition of a particular event or idea can lead people to believe
that it is true, very widespread, and much more important than it really is.
• Bias in numbers and statistics: Statistics need to be interpreted; they are often used to
create false impressions. Of the following statements, which statistic would you use to try to
convince someone that the death penalty is a good idea?
– Almost 30% of those surveyed support the death penalty.
– More than 70% of those surveyed are against the death penalty.
Always be critical and aware as you read, watch, or listen
to mass media. Keep alert for these many forms of bias.