One-sided sourcing
All sources share the same perspective; opposing views are absent.
Specimen
Three economists who support the tax cut explain why it will boost growth. Critics were not approached for comment.
Fabricated passage — teaching example designed for clarity.
one-sided sourcing — opposing perspective entirely absent
Dissection
Three economists who support the tax cut explain why it will boost growth. Critics were not approached for comment.
- no dissenting voice
- conclusion follows from source selection
- appears as neutral reporting
Field notes
- Family
- Framing & omission
- Habitat
- economic reporting, policy journalism, political coverage
- Frequency
- found in 20% of analyzed articles
- Confused with
- False balance , Selective framing
In the wild
"Four industry leaders praised the new regulation. No consumer groups were consulted."
Business reporting, trade publication, February 2026
"The three experts interviewed all agreed the policy is working as intended."
Policy coverage, national broadsheet, April 2026
Why it works
Multiple sources feel like corroboration. But sources who all agree produce consensus, not independent verification.
Counter-move
Ask: who holds the opposing view? Why aren't they here?
See it flagged in real articles while you read.
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