The more objective information is, the higher the credibility of that information. When information is objective, it is not influenced by emotions, prejudice, or biases. For example, an objective news report in print, media, or television will present all sides of the issue. A biased report may show only one side. This is unfair.
In this activity, you will learn more about objectivity and bias.
To help identify whether information is objective or biased, you can look for the following clues:
Are all sides of an issue being presented? Can you easily identify opposing viewpoints?
Are there images presented? Are the images relevant to the issue? Are the images designed to appeal to your emotions?
Is music playing (on television, radio, or the Internet)? Is the type of music relevant to the issue, or is it designed to influence your opinion?
As reporters present the news, it is important that they fulfill their responsibility to inform the public and to deliver news without bias. However, news reports have at times been slanted in favour of one side or another. When this happens, public trust in the media is shaken.
The following video are about fake news and how to spot it.