Why Professors Can Be Biased in Lectures

Definition and Understanding of Bias

When discussing the reasons behind professors appearing biased during lectures, it's important to first establish the distinction between bias and judgment. A bias is an unconscious influence on one's reasoned judgment, often leading to a skewed perspective without clear justification. In contrast, judgment is a process of making informed decisions based on available evidence and critical thinking.

For instance, if a professor holds a strong opinion that Trump is the best president ever, this does not necessarily mean they are biased; it is only biased if their views are rooted in unconscious influences or if they fail to justify their opinions with adequate evidence. When a professor's beliefs are the result of well-reasoned analysis, it is a form of judgment rather than bias.

Impact of Unjustified Bias in Teaching

However, regardless of whether a professor's views are biased or a result of sound judgment, failing to explain the basis for their views can lead to a perception of bias. When a professor lectures without providing a rationale for their stance, it can appear to students that the professor is always on one side, never considering other viewpoints. This can be detrimental to the educational process as it may discourage critical thinking and open-mindedness.

A key aspect of effective teaching is to show students how to think critically and understand the reasoning behind expert opinions, not just to assert authority and push one's views. When a professor fails to provide a balanced and justified perspective, it risks indoctrinating students rather than teaching them.

Strategies to Avoid Unjustified Bias

To avoid these pitfalls, professors can adopt several strategies:

Provide Comprehensive Justifications: Clearly explain the reasoning behind each viewpoint or argument. This helps students understand the nuances and allows them to make informed judgments. Include Diverse Perspectives: Encourage open discourse by presenting arguments from multiple angles. This fosters a balanced and inclusive learning environment. Cite Reliable Sources: Support your viewpoints with credible evidence and references to foster trust and understanding.

Ethical Considerations in University Teaching

Professors must adhere to certain ethical standards in their teaching to ensure that their lectures are not only informative but also fair and unbiased. The Historian's approach, as presented by AJG, exemplifies these principles. By concluding with "Varying Viewpoints," AJG not only showcased open-mindedness but also encouraged students to engage with contrasting arguments.

John Kennedy, a well-respected historian, adopted a similar model with his 'The American Pageant,' concluding each chapter with diverse viewpoints. This method not only prevented accusations of bias but also praised for fostering an environment of open-mindedness and critical thinking.

Ultimately, the goal of education is to cultivate independent and critical thinkers, not to indoctrinate them with one-sided views. By adhering to these ethical standards, professors can significantly enhance the value and impact of their lectures.

Keywords: bias, professor lecture, teaching ethics