Question

Which examples signal potential bias in a source about the benefits of eating more sugar? Check all that apply.

The writer’s research was sponsored by a corn syrup (sugar) lobby.
The writer says, “The thought of giving up sugar makes me want to cry.”
The writer cites a study showing that sugar is a source of short-term energy.
The writer includes an interview with an expert in nutritional science.
The writer fails to mention that the FDA recommends limiting sugar intake.
The writer claims that sugary treats are the high point of most people’s days.

Answer 1

Select: 1, 2, 5, 6.

Brief reasons:
- 1 (sponsored by a corn syrup lobby): clear conflict of interest — funding from an industry group can bias results or framing.
- 2 (“The thought of giving up sugar makes me want to cry”): emotional, subjective language indicating the writer’s personal stake or bias.
- 5 (fails to mention FDA recommendation to limit sugar): omission of relevant counterevidence or authority is a red flag for bias.
- 6 (“sugary treats are the high point of most people’s days”): sweeping generalization/appeal to emotion rather than evidence.

Not flagged:
- 3 (cites a study that sugar is a short-term energy source): a factual citation supporting a claim is not inherently biased.
- 4 (interview with a nutritional science expert): expert input can strengthen credibility unless the expert has a disclosed conflict or is misrepresented.