SpinSpotter is a new browser plugin that uses the power of community on the internet to identify bias in online media. If you use Firefox you can install the “Spinoculars” which will allow you to see spin identified by other users, plus identify and categorize spin that you see. The plugin categorizes bias using the ethics code from the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. Since it is community-based it is ultimately self-correcting, much like Wikipedia. Watch the promo video below:

This plugin is directed at newshounds, who happen to be the same people that can recognize bias and are thus the least likely to need such a plugin. There will be no effect on the writing of news in general and it will result in a community of nitpickers. Furthermore, I do not think the regular public is web-savvy enough, nor willing to take the time to install such a plugin. Though I applaud their efforts, I think this plugin will end up in the deadpool soon enough. The best way to fight bias is to encourage critical thinking, not to automate it.

Via RWW.

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