Resource log - Neutrality and Bias

When evaluating sources one relevant issue is the extent to which a source is neutral or biased.

Very few sources are truly neutral. A neutral source would be where all sides of an issue are presented with equal weight and no particular point of view is advocated. Neutral sources are very credible, but rare.

More often a source will be written in order to promote a particular point of view. This doesn't mean that the source is of no value, but you do need to be aware of what the writer's angle is, and to consider the opposing arguments. If you have two conflicting biased sources then you need to select other criteria to judge their credibility and the plausibility of their arguments. Remember the credibility criteria using the acronym RAVEN:

• Reputation

• Ability to perceive/see

• Vested interest

• Expertise or experience

• Neutrality or bias

In addition to these you will need to assess:

• to what extent the argument is plausible or implausible
• the quality and relevance of the evidence provided
• the quality of the reasoning – does the author provide sound reasons to support his case, or is the thinking flawed in some way.

Watch this space for more blog entries on these topics, which will be useful not only for evaluating your sources but also for structuring and revising your own arguments.