What is bias, and how can it show up in news reporting?

• A. A neutral, objective approach.
• B. A leaning that affects objectivity.
• C. A lack of any viewpoint.
• D. An error-free report.

Answer: (B)

Bias is a leaning that affects objectivity. In news reporting, you can see bias when coverage tilts toward or against a person, issue, or idea. This shows up in what stories are chosen and how prominently they run, which facts are highlighted, and the order in which information is presented. Language matters too: adjectives and verbs can carry value judgments that shape how readers interpret events. The sources quoted or featured can reveal a particular viewpoint, and statistics or visuals can be framed to favor one side by lacking necessary context. Bias can be subtle or obvious, and it can be unintentional, but it still colors how objective the reporting feels.