Media bias in the U.S.’ Big Three TV networks

The discussion of media bias has a long history in the field of media studies, but the subjective essence of bias makes it hard to define as well as challenging to measure. The model that statistically analyzes the relationship between how the presidential job approval rating changes and the likelihood of that being aired used in this paper can enable us to overcome the problems in previous studies. Applying the model to the U.S.’ big three TV networks’ evening news programs, we find that two of them have apparent biases on the whole. Especially NBC presents a clear preference for negative news about Obama and positive news about Trump. Considering the power these networks possess on shaping public opinion, the discussion of media bias remains essential.