False equivalence can disguise bias under a show of balance

Evidence

False equivalenceTo suggest that there is equal value between two points of view, when it is obvious that one is much closer to the truth. Often used to avoid accusations of partisan bias. — Lee McIntyre, Post-Truth, 350

Categorization

• DEFINE: Defines false equivalence as treating unequal views as equal to evade accusations of partisanship.
• XREF: connects to: Disagreement over evidence can stem from accuracy motives or identity motives — Sander van der Linden, Foolproof: Why Misinformation Infects…, 140; False equivalence between sides is itself a hallmark of post-truth — Lee McIntyre, Post-Truth, 15; Formal two-sided balance distorts rather than serves truth in reporting conflict — Hall, Stuart, Essential Essays, Volume 1, 866 (+3 more)

Broader Connections

• Formal two-sided balance distorts rather than serves truth in reporting conflict #exemplifies (0.85) — Hall, Stuart, Essential Essays, Volume 1, 866
• False equivalence between sides is itself a hallmark of post-truth #expands (0.82) — Lee McIntyre, Post-Truth, 15