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bias

noun

/ˈbʌɪəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bias

A tendency to prefer or believe in something in a partial way, often influenced by one's own experiences or beliefs.
"The news report was criticized for its bias towards a particular political party."

Detailed meaning of bias

Bias can occur at an individual level, or it can be built into systems and institutions. There are many different types of bias, including cognitive bias, which refers to the ways in which our brains can distort or influence our perceptions and decision making. Confirmation bias, where people tend to seek out and pay attention to information that confirms their existing beliefs, is an example of cognitive bias. Social bias is another type of bias that refers to the ways in which societal norms, stereotypes, and prejudices can influence our perceptions and actions. For example, implicit bias refers to the unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that shape our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unintended way. Bias can have a significant impact on how individuals and groups are treated and can perpetuate inequality and discrimination. It is important to be aware of one's own biases and to take steps to counteract them in order to make fair and unbiased decisions.

Example sentences containing bias

1. Bias in hiring practices can limit opportunities for underrepresented groups.
2. The study aimed to investigate bias in the criminal justice system.
3. The teacher's grading was questioned for its potential bias towards certain students.
4. The journalist was praised for exposing bias in a high-profile case.
5. The researcher acknowledged their own bias and took steps to mitigate its influence.
6. The politician accused the media of having a bias against them.

History and etymology of bias

The noun 'bias' has an etymology that can be traced back to both Latin and French origins. It ultimately comes from the Latin word 'bifax' or 'bifrons,' which means 'two-faced' or 'double.' This Latin term evolved into the Old French word 'biais,' which referred to a slant or diagonal direction. Over time, 'bias' acquired a figurative sense of leaning or inclining in a particular direction, which is the essence of its modern meaning. In its current usage, 'bias' denotes a tendency to prefer or believe in something in a partial or prejudiced way, often influenced by one's own experiences or beliefs. The word 'bias' highlights the idea of leaning or tilting towards a particular perspective or opinion, which may not always be impartial or objective.

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Further usage examples of bias

1. The company's policy on dress code was criticized for its gender bias.
2. The jury selection process aims to minimize bias and ensure a fair trial.
3. The doctor's diagnosis was challenged for its potential bias towards a particular treatment.
4. The writer's bias was evident in their choice of sources and language.
5. The team's coach acknowledged their own bias and encouraged players to be mindful of it as well.
6. Unconscious bias can significantly impact decision-making processes in various aspects of life.
7. Media bias, whether intentional or inadvertent, has the power to shape public perceptions and beliefs.
8. Confirmation bias, the tendency to seek out information that confirms our preexisting views, can hinder objective reasoning.
9. Gender bias, unfortunately, still persists in many workplaces, affecting opportunities and treatment.
10. Cognitive bias, including cognitive shortcuts and heuristics, can subtly influence our daily choices and judgments.
11. Political bias in media and discourse can contribute to societal polarization and division.
12. Recognizing bias, both within ourselves and in our institutions, is the crucial first step toward addressing and rectifying it.
13. Bias in hiring practices can impede efforts to foster diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
14. Personal bias, stemming from individual experiences and beliefs, can sometimes cloud our judgment.
15. Bias can lead to unfair treatment of individuals or groups, perpetuating inequality.
16. Cultural bias in educational materials and practices can affect the quality of learning experiences.
17. Overcoming bias requires self-awareness and a willingness to challenge preconceived notions.
18. Bias can influence how we perceive and interact with others, impacting our relationships and interactions.
19. Racial bias remains a pressing and deeply rooted issue, affecting marginalized communities.
20. Addressing bias through policies and awareness campaigns is a crucial step in promoting equity and justice.
21. Many biases develop unconsciously, making it essential to examine our subconscious beliefs and attitudes.
22. Bias can distort the truth, making it difficult to discern objective facts from subjective interpretations.
23. Bias can have significant consequences in policy decisions, potentially perpetuating inequality and injustice.
24. Encouraging diverse perspectives and voices can help counteract the effects of bias in decision-making processes.
25. Media literacy and critical thinking skills are valuable tools for individuals to navigate and mitigate bias in the information landscape.