A Method
for Assessing Bias in BBC Programmes
The
following method for assessing bias in BC programmes was developed when
analysing programmes dealing with GM technology and organic farming. It became
clear that the method can be applied to other topics.
It is
believed that the method is objective as it is based on counting six different
kinds of statements made by the interviewees and especially by the BBC
interviewers in a programme.
Here
the topic is the hypothetical X.
It will
be expected that the interviewees will have views for or against X as
appropriate. What is more relevant is the position of the BBC which can be
judged by the number of times the BBC interviewer a) supports the different
sides and b) challenges the interviewees who support the two sides.
Bias
will also be evident if the BBC interviewers associate themselves with one side
by the language used e.g. the use of “we” and “us”. How a BBC presenter speaks
(e.g. tone of voice) and thereby shows enthusiasm for one side cannot be used
as quantifiable evidence; nevertheless it is a signal that alerts the
viewer/listener to the presenter’s views. Likewise the repetition of challenges
and the interruptions made by the BBC presenter and the “jubilation” shown when
an interviewee is browbeaten into an admission can be indicative of bias but
are difficult to cater for in the methodology.
Measurement of impartiality concerning X
Impartiality
is assessed by counting the numbers of separate statements in each programme
that fall into the following categories:-.
1.
Statements opposing X a) by the
BBC interviewer
2.
Statements opposing X b) by
interviewees
3.
Statements opposing X by interviewees that are challenged by the BBC interviewer
4.
Statements in favour of X a) by the
BBC interviewer
5.
Statements in favour of X b) by
interviewees
6.
Statements in favour by the interviewees that are challenged by the BBC interviewer
7. Comments
by BBC showing that they understand the nature of X
BBC
bias against X will be evident when:-
i)
The numbers for (1) exceed those for (4).
ii)
The numbers for (6) exceed those for (3).
Assessments
made by a comparison of BBC interviewer statements and challenges are more
revealing than comparison of interviewee statements.
Statements
by interviewees (2 and 5) can be expected to follow their “party line” on X and
the numbers will only be revealing if the interviewer allows one side more
time.
It is
important that bias is estimated over a number of consecutive programmes so
that the assessor cannot be accused of cherry-picking.
Victor M. Shorrocks M.A., D.Phil., May
2013
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