B2 Listening for Inference: Evaluating Arguments and Identifying Speaker Bias
Welcome! In this advanced lesson, we will learn to evaluate arguments1 and identify speaker bias2. This means you will not just understand what is said, but also judge if the speaker's reasoning is strong and fair.
1. Identifying Speaker Bias
A strong argument uses facts and logic. A biased argument often uses emotion and unfair language to persuade you. Listen for these clues of bias:
- Emotionally Charged Language: Very strong positive or negative words (e.g., "perfect," "amazing," "terrible," "disaster").
- Unfair Generalizations4: Using absolute words like "always," "never," "everyone," "no one."
- Ignoring the Other Side: Only presenting one side of an issue without acknowledging other perspectives.
2. Practice 1: A Biased Argument
Let's listen to a person talk about street food. Listen for clues of bias. Is this a fair and balanced argument?
"Honestly, I think street food is a terrible idea. It's always dirty and completely unsafe. You never know what you are eating. In my opinion, everyone should only eat in expensive restaurants because they are obviously cleaner and much better in every way. There is no reason to eat on the street."
Analysis of the Argument:
This is a very weak and biased argument. The speaker uses strong emotional words ("terrible," "completely unsafe") and unfair generalizations ("always," "never," "everyone"). They do not provide any facts or evidence and ignore the positive aspects of street food.
3. Practice 2: A More Balanced3 Argument
Now, let's listen to a more balanced argument on the same topic. Notice how this speaker presents both sides of the issue.
"Street food in Siem Reap offers a very authentic cultural experience, and it's often delicious and affordable. However, it's true that there can be some risks with food safety, so it's wise to be careful. Therefore, while I generally recommend it, I always advise people to choose vendors that look clean and are busy with many local customers."
Why is this argument stronger?
This argument is stronger because it is balanced. The speaker acknowledges both the positive points (authentic, delicious) and the negative points (risks), then offers a reasonable conclusion (be careful). This is much more persuasive than a one-sided, biased argument.
Final Quiz: Identify the Bias
Listen to this short talk about motorbikes in the city. Is the speaker's argument balanced or biased?
Monologue: (Listen to the audio)
The speaker's argument is...
- (a) Balanced, because they consider both pros and cons.
- (b) Biased, because they use strong negative language and generalizations.
Click to Show Answers
Answer: (b) Biased. The speaker uses emotionally charged language ("disaster"), generalizations ("always reckless"), and absolute statements ("absolutely no benefit"), without considering any potential positive aspects of motorbikes (e.g., they are affordable, reduce traffic compared to cars).
Homework Task
1. Find the Bias: Read the comments section of a news article or a YouTube video on a controversial topic. Find one comment that is very biased. What words or phrases reveal the writer's bias?
2. Create a Balanced Argument: Think about a topic you have a strong opinion on. First, write down your opinion and reasons. Then, think about the other side. What is one good reason someone might disagree with you? Try to write a short, balanced summary that includes both viewpoints.
Vocabulary Glossary
- To Evaluate (an argument) (verb) - Khmer: ដើម្បីវាយតម្លៃ (អំណះអំណាង) - To judge the quality, importance, or strength of an argument based on evidence and logic. ↩
- Bias (noun) - Khmer: ភាពលំអៀង - A strong, personal, and often unfair preference or opinion that can influence an argument and prevent a balanced view. ↩
- Balanced (adjective) - Khmer: មានតុល្យភាព - Considering all sides of an issue fairly and not allowing personal opinions to influence you. ↩
- Generalization (noun) - Khmer: ទូទៅ - A broad statement that suggests something is true all of the time, when it is not (e.g., "All tourists are rich."). ↩