What does "media bias" indicate?

• A. The perception or reality that news coverage favors one side over another
• B. The requirement for journalists to remain neutral
• C. The technique of balancing conflicting viewpoints
• D. The influence of audience ratings on news content

Answer: (A)

"Media bias" indicates the perception or reality that news coverage favors one side over another. This concept recognizes that journalists, editors, and media organizations may consciously or unconsciously promote certain viewpoints, ideologies, or interests in their reporting. Such bias can manifest in various ways, including the selection of stories, the framing of issues, the emphasis placed on certain perspectives, and the language used to describe events or individuals.

Recognizing media bias is crucial for consumers of news, as it can shape public opinion and influence the political landscape. Understanding this bias helps audiences critically evaluate the information presented to them and seek a more balanced perspective. The other options reflect different aspects of journalism or media but do not encapsulate the essence of "media bias" as directly as the correct answer does.