Bias, as you may remember, is any prejudice or preconceived idea. It isn’t always always intentional, but it always weights the message, sometimes to great effect. Usually this distortion happens because writers or speakers rely on a limited set of facts or choose words that convey a certain attitude toward the topic. If their purpose is to convince you that they are right, revealing some facts and not others or creating a tone that appeals to certain emotions makes a great deal of sense.

Some writings and speeches are more biased than others, of course, and when your purpose is to learn the facts about a topic or issue, it's important to stay wary of exactly how--and how much--a source is pitched toward a particular side. Ask yourself these questions, especially as you listen to or read political material: What facts are left out? What additional questions are left unanswered? Did the author try to create a positive or negative impression? Would you feel differently about the issue if the author had chosen different words to describe it?

One reliable clue that a source is especially biased is the frequent use of statements that include the words all or never. Other signs of extreme bias include trying to appeal only to your emotions rather than making a logical argument, relying on generalizations without supporting them with details and examples, presenting only one side of an issue, or ridiculing people with opposing views. Also consider what the author stands to gain by writing the article, or who seems to be funding the maintenance of the website.

Think about the sources of information you have gathered so far. Was there evidence of bias? If so, were you able to glean useful facts from the sources anyway and then form your own opinion? Give it a try: Complete the section of your worksheet labeled Part 5: Identify Bias.