Bias in the Media

Detecting media bias requires critical analysis of the information being presented in order to eliminate bias in the story. In the CNN article, “Obama Tours Petra on Last Stop of Middle East Tour” we must use what we learned about by using critical thinking as we evaluate what we read, see, and hear. This article describes Obama’s accomplishments during his recent trip to the Middle East and his strategy to strengthen our bond with our allies in the region. By visiting Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinian territory, Obama hopes to bring all sides together in the interest of peace and security in the region.

The reporting of the news story was clear and accurate with sufficient depth and breadth. The reporters explained what President Obama did during his tour and they clearly stated what his intentions and goals were for each stage of the trip. For example, they explained what was achieved by obtaining an apology from Israel to Turkey for the 2010 raid that killed Turkish citizens. They explained how Obama was trying to urge young Israelis to understand the feelings of the Palestinians so that there might be more tolerance in the future. The facts seem to be reported clearly and fully without ignoring critical details.

The story seemed to only present perspectives and views from an American standpoint. The reporters did not discuss how other countries and their governments felt about Obama’s trip. The article discussed the advantages of the trip for America and it’s allies. There were no alternate points of views presented. The reporters failed to mention if there were any negative implications from Obama’s tour. I wonder if there were any anti-American rallies in the countries visited or other countries in the Middle East. Was there any damage done to our relationships with other countries such as Iran? There was an overall questionable assumption that everyone in the Middle East was open to and welcoming to having an American...