LibGuides: LAR101: Taking a Stance: Library Activities

Understanding Bias

Today we will talk about evaluating sources and understanding bias. Using the "community of interpretation" that was assigned to your group, determine which of the three statements below is a "lie."

Self-driving cars are good for the economy.
Self-driving cars are safe to operate.
Self-driving cars need a lot of rules and regulation.

Use the following sources to help you make your decision. Remember to be thinking in the mindset of your assigned community - for this activity, try not to let your own personal opinions influence your discussion!

Source 1: Self-driving cars likely won’t steal your job (until 2040)
Marshall, Aarian. "Self-driving cars likely won’t steal your job (Until 2040)." Wired. 13 June 2018. https://www.wired.com/story/self-driving-car-job-impact-economy-savings-safe-report/

Source 2: Public health, autonomous automobiles, and the rush to market
Kelley, Ben. "Public Health, Autonomous Automobiles, and the Rush to Market." Journal of Public Health Policy, vol. 38, no. 2, 2017, pp. 167-184.
Source 3: Federal Agency Investigates Tesla Crash; Driver Says Car Was On Autopilot
Romo, Vanessa. “Federal Agency Investigates Tesla Crash; Driver Says Car Was on Autopilot.” NPR.Org. 16 May 2018.

Use the Google Spreadsheets below to answer some questions as you evaluate each source.

Group 1
Engineers at Tesla, Inc.
- Goal: Develop technology to advance Tesla's business
Group 2
Representatives of the U.S. Department of Transportation
- Goal: Create policy related to vehicles and transportation issues
Group 3
Members of a consumer advocacy group such as the Center for Auto Safety
- Goal: Work to make sure products are safe for consumers to use
Group 4
Employees of the Crete Carrier Corporation (Commercial truck drivers)
- Goal: Make a living by transporting materials around the country