What is it?
False balance occurs when two sides of an issue are presented as equally valid when the evidence strongly supports one side over the other. It creates a misleading impression of controversy or uncertainty where little actually exists among experts.
Examples
'Scientists debate whether climate change is real' (when the vast majority agree it is)
'Doctors are divided on whether vaccines are safe' (when there is overwhelming consensus they are)
How to Avoid This
Present perspectives in proportion to their support among relevant experts. Acknowledge when one position has significantly more evidence or expert consensus behind it.
How to Counter This
Point out the actual distribution of expert opinion: 'While there are some who disagree, over 97% of climate scientists agree that human-caused climate change is occurring.'