Political bias

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Political bias is a bias or perceived bias involving the slanting or altering of information to make a political position or political candidate seem more attractive. With a distinct association with media bias, it commonly refers to how a reporter, news organisation, or TV show covers a political candidate or a policy issue.^[1]

Bias emerges in a political context when individuals engage in an inability or an unwillingness to understand a politically opposing point of view. Such bias in individuals may have its roots in their traits and thinking styles; it is unclear whether individuals at particular positions along the political spectrum are more biased than any other individuals.^[2]

Political bias exists beyond simple presentation and understanding of view-points favouring a particular political leader or party, but transcends into the readings and interactions among individuals undertaken daily.^[3] The prevalence of political bias has a lasting impact with proven effects on voter behaviour and consequent political outcomes.^[3]

With an understanding of political bias comes the acknowledgment of its violation of expected political neutrality.^[4] A lack of political neutrality is the result of political bias.^[4]