Bias is a type of writing FOR (positive) or AGAINST (negative) a particular event, group, idea, concept, plan, or person. There are SEVEN ways that an author can reveal their bias.

Slanted Language and Evidence

- using words, images, and/or information that only show the positive or negative side of the argument or discussion

- this distorts reality, ignores differing points of view, and thus leaves the reader with the assumption that there was only one perspective

Exaggeration or Highly Emotional Statements

- using language that appeals to strong emotions, and not logic

- tone words (mood, feeling) that demonstrate approval or disapproval are often used in this type of writing

Name-Calling

- using belittling, degrading, or negative names to indicate disapproval (i.e. evil, lousy, liar, failure)

Linguistic Bias

- using discriminatory language

- EXAMPLE: First Nations people describes as “ROAMING,” “WANDERING,”

or “ROVING” across the land. This type of language implicitly justifies the seizure of Native lands by “MORE GOAL-DIRECTED” white Europeans who “TRAVELED” OR “SETTLED” their way west.

- EXAMPLE: Such words as FOREFATHERS, MANKIND, AND

BUSINESSMAN serve to deny the contributions (or even the existence) of females.

- EXAMPLE: Immigrant peoples are referred to as “SWARMS”

or “HOARDS.” These terms serve to dehumanize and reduce the diversity and intragroup differences.


Stereotyping and Over-Generalizing

- using statements that indicate that ALL members of one group are the same as ONE of its members

- takes the actions and behaviours of an individual and applies them to the entire group

Opinions Stated as Facts

- using arguments that assume an important point is truth

- proof or information needed to support an argument or position are neglected and left out

Unreality

- ignoring the existence of prejudice, racism, discrimination, exploitation, oppression, sexism, and intergroup conflict

- EXAMPLE: the internment of Japanese Canadians; the Canadian immigration policy towards Jews escaping Hitler’s reach; etc.

- when controversial topics are glossed over, this unrealistic coverage denies people the information they need to recognize and understand the problems that plague society

o this can also hinder the ability of people to perhaps conquer (solve) these same problems