In writing, what does "bias" refer to?

Bias refers to a subjective perspective that can influence an author's viewpoint, shaping how they present information, characters, or themes in their writing. This subjective lens can lead an author to favor one side of an argument, potentially skewing the reader's understanding or perception of the topic at hand. When an author has a bias, it can manifest in the language they choose, the sources they reference, and the conclusions they draw, ultimately impacting the overall message of the work.

In contrast, factual representation without opinions aims to provide an objective account of events, focusing solely on what can be verified without the influence of personal feelings. The concept of universal truth implies an absolute perspective that might not accurately reflect the varied interpretations of literary works influenced by individual biases. A writing style that avoids personal feelings focuses on neutrality and objectivity rather than subjective viewpoints, which is contrary to what bias embodies.