Listening: Listening for Inference, Attitude, & Opinion B2 - Lesson 3: Evaluating Arguments and Identifying Speaker Bias

Listening for Inference: Evaluating Arguments and Bias

CEFR Level B2

Lesson Goals

In this advanced lesson, you will practice listening beyond the literal meaning to evaluate arguments, identify speaker bias, and judge the strength of a speaker's reasoning.

Identifying Speaker Bias

A strong argument uses facts and logic. A biased argument uses emotion and unfair language to persuade you. When listening, be aware of these common clues of bias:

• Emotionally Charged Language: Using very strong positive or negative words like "perfect," "amazing," "terrible," or "disaster."
• Unfair Generalizations: Using absolute words like "always," "never," "everyone," or "no one."
• Ignoring Other Perspectives: Only presenting one side of an issue without acknowledging any other viewpoints.

Example 1: A Biased Argument

Let's listen to a person talk about street food. As you listen, try to spot the clues of bias.

"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: This is a weak and biased argument. The speaker uses emotionally charged words ("terrible"), unfair generalizations ("always," "never," "everyone"), and ignores any positive aspects of street food.

Example 2: A Balanced Argument

Now, listen to a more balanced argument on the same topic. Notice how this speaker is more persuasive because they are more reasonable.

"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 advise people to choose vendors that look clean and are busy with many local customers."

Analysis: This argument is stronger because it is balanced. The speaker acknowledges both the positives (authentic, affordable) and the negatives (risks), then offers a logical conclusion. This shows critical thinking and is far more convincing.

Key Tip: The Persuasive Power of Balance

At the B2 level, it's important to understand not just what people say, but how they persuade. Ironically, a heavily biased argument is often less persuasive to a critical listener.

When a speaker acknowledges the other side of an issue ("However...", "While it's true that..."), they build trust and appear more reasonable and intelligent. A balanced argument shows confidence and is ultimately more powerful.

Practice: Identify the Bias

Listen to this short talk about motorbikes in the city. Based on the clues we've learned, decide if the speaker's argument is balanced or biased.

"In my opinion, motorbikes are a complete disaster for this city. They are incredibly noisy and their drivers are always reckless and dangerous. There is absolutely no benefit to having them on our streets. We should ban them immediately for a better, quieter city."

The speaker's argument is...

• (a) Balanced, because they consider both pros and cons.
• (b) Biased, because they use strong negative language and generalizations.

Show Answer

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., affordability, reducing car traffic).

Vocabulary

• To Evaluate (verb) [ដើម្បីវាយតម្លៃ]

  To judge the quality or strength of something (like an argument) based on evidence and logic.

• Bias (noun) [ភាពលំអៀង]

  A strong, personal, and often unfair preference that prevents a balanced view.

• Balanced (adjective) [មានតុល្យភាព]

  Considering all sides of an issue fairly without letting personal feelings interfere.

Your Mission

Apply your critical listening skills with these real-world tasks.

1. Find the Bias Online: Read the comments section of a news article or YouTube video on a controversial topic (e.g., politics, environment). Find one comment that is very biased. What specific words or phrases reveal the writer's bias?
2. Create a Balanced Argument: Think about a topic you feel strongly about. First, write your biased opinion. Then, challenge yourself to write a more balanced summary that acknowledges at least one valid point from the opposing viewpoint.