Answered By: Shelly Jablonski
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2024     Views: 208

What is bias?

Being biased can mean displaying “... a personal and sometimes unreasoned judgment” (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, 3b). In writing, bias may occur when a writer uses disrespectful language, overly dramatic word choices, personal opinions, or does not acknowledge different points of view.

To avoid bias, follow these recommendations:

  • Research differing points of view and include them in your discussion. 
  • Give strong evidence to support all claims. 
  • Avoid generalizations (e.g., phrases that use all, never, none, always).
  • Use objective language.
  • Create distance between your personal opinions or experiences and the topic. 
  • Be sensitive and descriptive in your language choices rather than categorizing. 
  • Be consistent in your discussion of race, gender, and sexual orientation.

To search for resources that offer differing points of view begin with:

For individual help with researching other points of view, chat with a librarian or schedule a research appointment with a librarian.

For individual help with the tone of your research paper, visit one of the campus Writing, Reading, and Language Centers

Chat with a Librarian