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The world of academia is composed of theories and arguments, the search for truth – but such a search can be tainted with unfounded accusations, the lacking concepts. It is all too easy to name mere opinions fact. Personal bias is injected into every notion, every paper, and helps to create the new theses. But there is a fragile line between offering ideas to an audience and claiming those ideas to be accurate.
Writers must be aware of the dangers of relying purely on their preferences. Research is meant to be the definition of any paper – not guesses. All claims must be reasonable and without the inflammatory statements. Achieving this can be difficult, however, for those who are deeply invested within their topics. Their judgment becomes impaired by passion. It is vital therefore that these rules are followed:
One: Avoid sensational words. It’s an expected thing to be enthusiastic about a specific subject or philosophy; but you cannot allow that enthusiasm to slip into your writing. Don’t color words with emotions. Don’t try to scandalize readers. Keep the tone neutral and without prejudice.
Two: Acknowledge opposing facts. You seek to prove a point within your paper. That point cannot be made, however, without referencing the facts that could discredit it. Established theories – even those not approved of by you – must be included to add validity. You must address them first and then counter them with your own concepts.
Three: Don’t simply provide opinions. Unless a paper is meant to be an exercise in possibility, you must be able to support every statement you make. Don’t offer broad phrases or vague explanations. Instead be precise with the truth and what can be verified.
Bias is to be refused in all forms of research. While personal interests (or subsequent loathings) may lead you toward a thesis, they must not shade the writing itself. They must instead be tucked away and replaced to simple logic.
