Bias in Media
It's important to keep in mind that all information comes with some element of bias. No matter how hard someone might try to remain fully objective, upbringing, culture and one's societal norms will color any information being presented. Knowing this, we can enhance our own knowledge of where we might be able to find reliable information and how to parse through the opinions that may being trying to manipulate our own viewpoint. Scroll down to find more information on how to do this.
The SIFT Method
When seeking out reliable resources, librarians recommend using the SIFT method to find the best possible information. SIFT stands for:
Stop
- Check in with yourself-are you experiencing strong emotions while reading? If so, maybe check to see if the language used is trying to manipulate your feelings to lean a certain way.
Investigate the source
- Who is the author of the article or video? Do they have the credentials or background to provide objective expertise in a certain subject area?
Find better coverage
- How many other sources have reported on this topic? Can you find a number of reliable sources that all hold the same claim? If not, you may want to reconsider the source.
Trace claims, quotes and media to the original context
- Are citations provided? Can you find the original research and come to your own conclusions? Is the version of the story you are reading as unbiased as possible?
The Filter Bubble
In 2011 Eli Pariser gave a Ted Talk outlining what is now known as The Filter Bubble. This is the algorithmic system that exists to present only information that is in line with your searching patterns and behaviors. Also known as the Echo Chamber, this can be damaging when it comes to finding and learning about diverse perspectives. Watch the video below to see how this happens.