Evaluating Objectivity

Goal: Find sources to address all sides of an issue.

• Does the writer have a strong opinion on the issue?
  Examples: NARAL Pro Choice America has a very different view of abortion than National Right to Life.
• Many print and electronic sources have a reputation for a particular political slant.
  Examples: The National Review and Fox News are generally considered to be conservative, while Mother Jones and NPR are generally considered to be much more liberal.
• Is that point of view obvious?
  Example: The white supremacist underpinnings of Martin Luther King, Jr.: A true historical examination are not revealed unless the "hosted by" link is followed.
• Is the source trying to convince you to DO something
  Example: Most commercial Web sites want you to buy a product or service. Their quality data should be balanced with information from a consumer oriented source.

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