You should be aware that some publications have a certain bias on the issues presented. The web site may be produced by a company that, of course, will be supportive of the materials they sell or the information they provide. The magazine may be a trade publication or a society publication that gives only one side of an issue. A book may be published by an organization that is trying to convince others of the merits of the organization's opinions. While none of this is necessarily bad or wrong, you do need to be aware of what is presented. If you want a balanced paper or speech, you will need to look at all sides of an issue. However, if you are doing an argumentative speech or essay, you will want to present only your side.

The following periodicals (while they may be excellent resources for you to use) all have a particular bias.

Adapted from LaGuardia, C. with Katz, B. & Katz, L.S. (2002). Magazines for Libraries. Ref. Z 6941 .K2 2002