Six ways journalists minimize bias
Updated: 7 days ago
To minimize bias in their stories, reputable journalists follow a number of professional standards.
Consulting multiple sources from a variety of viewpoints
Reputable journalists avoid using the same sources in multiple stories and allow subjects of allegations to respond before a story is published.
Being mindful of how visuals can alter the message of a story
Headlines and images -- including photos and videos -- should provide a fair representation of the story and its subjects.
Adhering to ethical standards of newsgathering
As outlined by the Society for Professional Journalists, these include:
Seeking truth and reporting it
Minimizing harm
Acting independently
Being accountable and transparent
Promoting newsroom diversity
Newsrooms made up of journalists from a variety of backgrounds can reduce bias utilizing their range of perspectives.
Working closely with principled editors and producers
Utilizing the skills of editors and producers who fact check, watch for blind spots, and ensure the story and its accompanying visuals are presented fairly can reduce bias in reporting.
Keeping newsrooms and journalists completely separate from business
Additionally, news publications disclose potential conflicts of interest.
If you feel a news organization or a story is unfairly biased, contact the editor or reporter and provide respectful and specific feedback.
Be a conscious consumer. Understand and recognize news bias.
Sources:
News Literacy Project: Understanding Bias, Parts 1 & 2, checkology.org
Society of Professional Journalists: Code of Ethics, spj.org
Facing History and Ourselves: How Journalists Minimize Bias, facinghistory.org
