You're navigating through sources for news stories. How do you tackle unconscious bias effectively?

1 Recognize Bias

To tackle unconscious bias effectively, start by acknowledging that it exists within everyone. It's a product of your background, experiences, and societal influences. When searching for news sources, pay attention to your initial reactions and ask yourself why you may favor certain perspectives over others. Challenge yourself to consider sources outside of your comfort zone, especially those that may offer a different viewpoint or come from a community that's underrepresented in media. Recognizing your own biases is the first step in preventing them from unduly shaping the stories you tell.

2 Diverse Sources

Diversity in sourcing is a practical method to counter unconscious bias. Ensure that the voices in your story represent a range of perspectives, particularly those of marginalized or less-heard groups. This doesn't just mean including people of different ethnicities or genders, but also considering a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds, geographical locations, and ideological standpoints. By actively seeking out a diverse set of sources, you'll not only provide a more nuanced story but also challenge your own preconceptions and broaden your understanding of the subject matter.

3 Question Assumptions

It's natural to form hypotheses about what a story might reveal, but it's crucial to remain open to outcomes that defy your expectations. Question your assumptions about the narrative and be prepared to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even if it contradicts your initial beliefs. This intellectual honesty is the cornerstone of combating unconscious bias. It requires a commitment to let facts dictate the story, not the other way around.

4 Reflect Regularly

Regular self-reflection is vital in managing unconscious bias. Take time to review your past work and consider whether certain patterns suggest a bias. Reflect on the balance of your reporting: Are some voices consistently prioritized over others? Do you gravitate towards certain types of stories? Self-awareness can be uncomfortable but is necessary for growth. Use these insights to inform future reporting and continuously improve the fairness of your journalism.

5 Seek Feedback

Engaging with colleagues for feedback is another effective way to identify and address unconscious bias. A fresh set of eyes can often spot biases that you might have missed. Encourage a culture of constructive criticism within your newsroom, where journalists can hold each other accountable and support one another in striving for impartiality. Peer review can be an invaluable tool in refining your approach to sourcing and storytelling.

6 Continuous Learning

Lastly, commit to continuous learning about unconscious bias and the ways it can influence journalism. Stay informed about research and discussions on the topic, attend workshops, and engage with other professionals who are also working to tackle these challenges. Education is a powerful tool against unconscious bias, and by remaining a student of your craft, you can keep your reporting as fair and balanced as possible.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?