Question

Wording bias Comment on each of the following as a potential sample survey question. Is the question clear? Is it slanted toward the desired response?

(a) “Some cell phone users have developed brain cancer. Should all cell phones come with a warning label explaining the danger of using cell phones?”

(b) “Do you agree that a national system of health insurance should be favored because it would provide health insurance for everyone and would reduce

administrative costs?”

(c) “In view of escalating environmental degradation and incipient resource depletion, would you favor economic incentives for recycling of resource-intensive consumer goods?”

Short answer

Part (a) Wording: Clear

Slanted: Yes

Part (b) Wording: Clear

Slanted: Yes

Part (c) Wording: Unclear

Slanted: Yes

Step-by-step solution

Part (a) Step 1: Given information

The question is straightforward. Because the question originated with those cell phone users who had brain tumors, it is skewed in favor of warning labels.

Part (a) Step 2: Concept

A sample survey picks a group of people from a larger group of people about whom we want to learn more. The data from the sample is used to draw inferences about the population. It's critical to be specific about the demographic you're interested in and the characteristics you'll track.

Part (a) Step 3: Explanation

We need to change the phrasing and make it slanted. The question is whether cell phones should come with a warning label. People will be more prone to say "Yes" to the question if the possibility of having brain cancer is mentioned.

Part (b) Step 1: Explanation

We need to change the phrasing and make it slanted.

The question is whether the health insurance system should be promoted.

Slanted: Yes, people will be more inclined to answer "Yes" to the question if the cost is included.

Part (c) Step 1: Explanation

We need to change the phrasing and make it slanted.

Wording: Uncertain since it uses a difficult word that is difficult for everyone to understand.

Slanted: Yes, people will be more prone to say "Yes" to the question due to environmental degradation.