Chapter 6.5, Problem 3E

Solution

To determine: whether the question may be biased or otherwise introduce bias into the survey and describe a way to correct the flaw.

The question may be biased because it presumes that the respondent already knows details about the topic.

The bias could be amended if the topic is first represented objectively, and then the question is voiced neutrally.

Given information:

The given statement is “Do you agree with all of the budget cuts proposed by the mayor”.

Concept Used:

Biased questions:

Questions that are flawed in a way that leads to inaccurate results are called biased questions. Questions may be biased in several ways:

The wording of the question may encourage or pressure the respondent to answer in a particular way.

The question may be perceived as too sensitive to answer truthfully.

The question may not provide the respondent with enough information to give an accurate opinion.

Calculation:

The question is asked with the presumption that the respondent already knows details with the topic.

The bias could be amended if the topic is first represented objectively, and then the question is voiced neutrally.

The responses form people unfamiliar with the topic may also affect the answer and their direct involvement in the topic.