Thought on Higher Ed Browser Beware!

Ninth grade. Pampa, Texas, World History. Mrs. Hopkins. Biased and unbiased sources. Mrs. Hopkins said it was important for us to develop the skill of determining whether the things we read were biased or unbiased. In multiple lessons, she provided us with two articles related to the same aspect of world history we were studying. One was biased and the other was unbiased. It sounds easy enough, but sometimes it was tricky. I don’t remember the topic of the articles, but I certainly remember the lesson itself.

The purpose of bias is to interpret an idea in such a way as to convince you to think, feel or believe a particular way about something. The purpose of objectivity (unbiased) is to present facts so you have a good understanding of a particular subject. One thing I have learned since Mrs. Hopkins’ World History class is that authentic objectivity is virtually impossible.

Bias is not necessarily a negative thing as long as we know it is there. I recently purchased a new vehicle. (Yes, Shelley, I shopped locally.) The information I received from salespeople was different from the automotive review research that I did. A good car salesperson highlights the many ways his vehicle will best suit your needs. Bias. In fact, I asked one salesperson to tell me why I should purchase his vehicle instead of a similar one at a neighboring dealership. (I didn’t buy either.) My independent research was more objective, but it was evident that some reviewers favored some vehicles over others and hoped I would too.

The goal of some sources is to be as objective as possible, while others are unabashedly devoted to a particular view. Let’s say a close family member recently received a serious medical diagnosis, and you need to learn more about prognosis, treatment and the path forward. For most medical conditions, a wealth of research is available.

Like most people, you do a web search and a lot of websites and articles pop up. Keep in mind that web browsers themselves have biases, so the hits have already been filtered. You glance through your options. Will you receive the most accurate and objective information from a medical journal, a research hospital or a drug manufacturer? The medical journal is probably written at an academic level that is difficult for a layperson to understand. The research hospital wants me to choose its network of doctors and facilities, and the drug manufacturer wants me to purchase its drugs. You must consider these biases, understanding that the information may be skewed to favor their organization. Will all have reliable information? Quite possibly. Just be aware that biases are present.

Speaking of bias, remember to take your own bias into consideration. For example, when choosing a news source, are you looking for a source that presents the news like you want it to be (confirmation bias), are you looking for a source that challenges your belief system or are you looking for a source that lays out the facts and encourages you to decide the implications of current events for yourself? Your own bias affects your choice.

We are always learning and seeking information. Whether purchasing that new SUV, learning about a new not-so-fun medical diagnosis or choosing a college (see me to discuss why the University Center is your best choice), bias is usually present. Is that a negative reality? Not necessarily. Just be aware. You can thank Mrs. Hopkins.

Keep learning!

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