Information Literacy Part 2: 

My responses are blue.

My reference article for the Q/A below is "Let's stick to the facts when discussing gun control"

Bias is when a statement reflects a partiality, preference, or prejudice for or against a person, object, or idea. Much of what you read and hear expresses a bias. Bias is when a writer or speaker uses a selection of facts, choice of words, and the quality and tone of description, to convey a particular feeling or attitude. Its purpose is to convey a certain attitude or point of view toward the subject. As you read or listen to biased materials, keep the following questions in mind:

• What facts has the author omitted?

• What additional information is necessary?
• This article should have included links to other sources regarding the Saddam Hussein claims as well as links to Obama's proposal or government page that lays out the facts of his proposal.

• What words create positive or negative impressions? My article examples are negative toward the more extreme elements of the pro-gun position.
• 'frenzy of almost true facts', 'hideous misinformation campaigns', 'not even remotely', 'red-faced vein bulging histrionics and threats'

• What impression would I have if different words had been used?
• I disagree with the pro gun control position so I would be more willing to listen to what the author has to say without feeling defensive if the tone were more neutral. That said, the article was not as vitriolic as others out there.

Biased information tries to change your mind, how you think. Being aware of bias and knowing how to identify, analyze, and assimilate biased information properly is a skill to be treasured. It puts you in charge of how you think instead of the print and media world. (Cuesta College Critically Evaluating the Logic and Validity of Information)

What are some indicators of bias on a web page?

• The language of the document is often extreme; statements have all or nothing connotations.
• The argument appeals more to the emotions than to logic.
• Things are worded with the intent to oversimplify or over generalize.
• The author wishes to present a limited view of the topic.

Questions to keep in mind as you seek indicators of bias:

• What is the author's political point of view?
• I am unable to find anything specifically stating this author's political affiliation however, in reviewing some of his other pieces, I would say he's a democrat.
• What does the author stand to gain?
• His piece rally's the pro gun control movement as well as attempts to persuade those that may be undecided.
• Who is paying for the website? DallasNews.com
• Does the author present alternate points of view?
• If so, are those views presented objectively, or with scorn
• The author does not present an alternate point of view. This piece was written to address what he perceives as emotional, irrational arguments that have no factual support. There is definitely some scorn.