GIS and Image Skills » Written Text Analysis and Bias Recognition

What you'll learn this session

Study time: 30 minutes

How to analyze written texts in geographical contexts
Techniques for identifying bias in geographical information
Methods to evaluate the reliability of different text sources
Skills to compare contrasting viewpoints in geographical debates
How to apply critical thinking to geographical information

Introduction to Written Text Analysis

In geography, we often need to analyze written information from various sources like newspapers, reports, websites and academic papers. Being able to understand, evaluate and identify potential bias in these texts is a crucial geographical skill that helps you form balanced opinions about complex issues.

Key Definitions:

Written text analysis: The process of examining written information to understand its meaning, purpose and reliability.
Bias: A preference or inclination that prevents fair or balanced consideration of a question or issue.
Source reliability: How trustworthy and accurate a piece of information is based on its origin.
Viewpoint: A particular attitude or way of considering an issue or topic.

📖 Types of Geographical Texts

Geography students encounter many different text types:

Academic: Research papers, textbooks, journals
Media: Newspaper articles, magazine features, blogs
Official: Government reports, policy documents
Advocacy: NGO publications, campaign materials
Personal: Travel blogs, diaries, social media posts

🔍 Why Text Analysis Matters

Analyzing texts helps you to:

Form balanced opinions on geographical issues
Identify reliable information for your studies
Understand different perspectives on controversial topics
Develop critical thinking skills
Prepare for exam questions requiring evaluation of evidence

Recognising Bias in Geographical Texts

Bias is present in almost all writing to some degree. In geography, bias can significantly affect how issues like climate change, migration, or development are presented. Learning to spot bias helps you form more balanced views.

Common Types of Bias in Geographical Texts

🛡 Political Bias

Reflects the author's political views or agenda. For example, different political perspectives on issues like immigration or environmental regulations.

🌐 Cultural Bias

Views influenced by the author's cultural background. May appear in discussions about development, where Western perspectives might dominate.

💰 Economic Bias

Reflects economic interests or ideologies. For example, a mining company's report on environmental impacts may downplay negative effects.

Clues That May Indicate Bias

When reading geographical texts, watch out for these signs of potential bias:

⚠ Language Clues

Emotive language: Words chosen to provoke an emotional response
Loaded terms: Words with strong positive or negative associations
Generalizations: Broad statements about groups without evidence
Exaggeration: Overstating facts or impacts

📝 Content Clues

Cherry-picking: Selecting only facts that support one view
Missing perspectives: Ignoring alternative viewpoints
Lack of evidence: Making claims without supporting data
Outdated information: Using old data when newer is available

Case Study Focus: Climate Change Reporting

Climate change reporting shows how the same facts can be presented differently:

Headline A: "Scientists warn of catastrophic climate disaster as temperatures soar" (Environmental NGO)
Headline B: "Climate changes part of natural cycle, new study suggests" (Industry-funded think tank)
Headline C: "Global temperatures increase by 1.1°C since pre-industrial era" (Scientific journal)

Each headline frames the same issue differently, potentially influencing the reader's perception.

Evaluating Source Reliability

Not all geographical information sources are equally reliable. Use these criteria to assess the trustworthiness of written texts:

🔐 CRAAP Test

A useful method for evaluating sources:

Currency: When was it published? Is it up-to-date?
Relevance: Does it relate to your topic? Who is the audience?
Authority: Who wrote it? What are their credentials?
Accuracy: Is it supported by evidence? Can facts be verified?
Purpose: Why was it written? To inform, persuade, or entertain?

📈 Source Hierarchy

Sources generally considered more reliable (top) to less reliable (bottom):

Peer-reviewed academic journals
Government statistical publications
Reports from established international organizations
Quality newspapers and news organizations
Educational websites (.edu, .ac.uk)
Commercial or organizational websites
Personal blogs and social media

Comparing Contrasting Viewpoints

Many geographical issues are complex and contested. Learning to compare different perspectives is essential for developing a balanced understanding.

Case Study Focus: Deforestation in the Amazon

Consider these contrasting viewpoints on Amazon deforestation:

Environmental Perspective: "Deforestation in the Amazon is causing irreversible damage to biodiversity and contributing significantly to climate change. It must be stopped immediately to preserve this vital ecosystem."

Economic Development Perspective: "The Amazon represents an important economic resource for Brazil. Controlled development provides jobs and income for local communities and contributes to national economic growth."

Indigenous Perspective: "The forest is our home and has been for thousands of years. We have sustainable practices for using forest resources that have been ignored by both conservationists and developers."

Each perspective has valid points, but also potential biases. A comprehensive understanding requires considering all viewpoints.

Techniques for Comparing Texts

When comparing geographical texts with different viewpoints:

Identify the main arguments of each text
Note the evidence used to support each argument
Consider what information might be missing or downplayed
Examine the language used and how it might influence the reader
Research the authors or organizations behind the texts
Look for common ground between opposing viewpoints

Practical Application: Analyzing a Geographical Text

When analyzing a geographical text, follow these steps:

Identify the source: Who wrote it? When? For what purpose?
Summarize the main points: What is the text saying?
Spot potential bias: Look for language clues and content gaps
Evaluate evidence: Is the information supported by facts?
Consider alternative viewpoints: What might others say?
Form your own conclusion: Based on all available information

💡 Exam Tips

For questions requiring text analysis:

Look for command words like "evaluate," "assess," or "to what extent"
Always consider multiple perspectives on the issue
Comment on the reliability of sources when relevant
Identify potential bias in the information provided
Use evidence from the text to support your points
Include your own balanced conclusion

✍ Practice Exercise

Find two newspaper articles about the same geographical issue (e.g., a new dam project, urban redevelopment, or climate policy):

Identify the main arguments in each article
Note any language that suggests bias
Compare how facts are presented in each
Research the background of each publication
Form your own view based on both articles plus additional research

🧠 Test Your Knowledge!