Avoiding Bias and Facilitating Productive Debate: The Importance of Stepping Outside of Our "News" Bubbles

In order to have productive debates, it is crucial to escape our own personal "news" bubbles and acknowledge the existence of alternative facts. Fact-checking during presidential debates should be avoided, allowing candidates to speak freely and present their own perspectives.

The adage "news is where you look" aptly captures the subjective nature of what we consider as "news." Our personal biases greatly influence the information we consume, resulting in differing perceptions of reality between individuals and communities. As a result, it is crucial to recognize the presence of alternative facts and perspectives that may challenge our own beliefs.

Today's media landscape is largely driven by partisanship, exacerbating the divide between red and blue America. This has led to a widespread suspicion of the media, with many questioning the veracity of information presented through traditional channels. This mistrust stems from both sides of the political spectrum, highlighting the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in the media.

Avoiding Bias and Facilitating Productive Debate: The Importance of Stepping Outside of Our "News" Bubbles

Presidential debates present a unique opportunity for candidates to engage directly with the American public. However, the presence of moderators raises concerns about potential bias and the suppression of certain perspectives. Moderators must strive to facilitate a fair and impartial exchange, allowing candidates to present their views without interruption or undue scrutiny.

Fact-checking during presidential debates is counterproductive and undermines the productive flow of discussion. It is neither the responsibility nor the role of moderators to act as fact-checkers in real-time. The immediate refutation of statements by candidates stifles open dialogue and prevents the audience from forming their own opinions based on the evidence presented.

Avoiding Bias and Facilitating Productive Debate: The Importance of Stepping Outside of Our "News" Bubbles

"Talking points," often dismissed as mere propaganda, are often the primary source of information for voters. While cynical observers may dismiss them as biased, it is important to recognize that they can still provide valuable insights and perspectives. By allowing candidates to present their talking points without interruption, moderators can foster a more informed and comprehensive debate.

The legendary Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858 serve as a model for productive political discourse. These three-hour debates, conducted without moderators, allowed both candidates to present their positions in depth. The absence of interruptions and the extended time for rebuttals facilitated a nuanced and thoughtful exchange of ideas.

Avoiding Bias and Facilitating Productive Debate: The Importance of Stepping Outside of Our "News" Bubbles

Moderators should prioritize allowing candidates to speak freely, without the constraints of time limits or interruptions. This unrestricted communication allows the audience to evaluate the candidates' arguments and form their own opinions.

Stepping outside of our "news" bubbles and acknowledging the existence of alternative facts is essential for productive debates. Fact-checking should be avoided, and moderators should focus on facilitating an open and unbiased exchange of ideas. By allowing candidates to present their views without interruption, we can foster a more informed and engaged electorate.