How can you evaluate objectivity or bias in a source?

• A. It cannot be evaluated.
• B. Only consider the author's tone.
• C. Consider the author's purpose, use of evidence, potential conflicts of interest, and representation of opposing views.
• D. Bias is always present and cannot be identified.

Answer: (C)

Evaluating objectivity or bias means looking past how something sounds and examining how it builds its case. The best approach is to consider the author's purpose, the quality and quantity of evidence used, any conflicts of interest, and how opposing views are represented. Tone alone can mislead; a piece can sound fair yet selectively cite data or omit relevant perspectives. Bias can be identified by checking what information is included or omitted, whether sources are credible, who funded the work, and how dissenting opinions are treated. By asking what the author is aiming to achieve, what evidence supports the claims, where the data comes from, and how opposing viewpoints are handled, you can judge whether a source is objective or biased.