LEFT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources have a slight to moderate liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appealing to emotion or stereotypes) to favor liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.
- Overall, we rate Science Friday as Left-Center Biased, based on its consistent focus on environmental justice, public health equity, and climate resilience, alongside minimal coverage of conservative perspectives on science policy. We rate it High for factual accuracy due to rigorous sourcing, expert-driven analysis, and long-standing editorial integrity.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-3.0)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (0.5)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: Medium Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
Science Friday is a nonprofit science journalism organization that was founded in 1991. It is most well-known for its weekly public radio show and podcast, which are broadcast on over 500 NPR-affiliated stations. The program is produced by the Science Friday Initiative, an independent 501(c)(3) organization based in New York. For more than 30 years, Science Friday has served as a bridge between scientists and the public, offering accessible, evidence-based reporting and educational resources that focus on scientific discoveries, environmental issues, public health, and technology.
Read our profile on the United States media and government.
Funded by / Ownership
Science Friday is a nonprofit organization supported by listener donations, grants from scientific and philanthropic foundations, such as the Winston Foundation and the Smart Family Foundation, as well as product sales through its online store. It does not accept advertising from political or corporate entities with a vested interest in science policy. Its latest Form 990 confirms its tax-exempt status and nonpartisan educational mission.
Analysis / Bias
Science Friday demonstrates a Left-Center bias, primarily through topic selection and issue framing. While its reporting is firmly grounded in scientific consensus and evidence, the outlet frequently covers topics favored by environmental justice advocates and progressive policymakers.
For example, its June 2025 feature, “Small City Pays A Price For PFAS In Drinking Water,” explores the disproportionate health burden of PFAS exposure on Newburgh, NY. The article highlights systemic environmental injustice, citing data from the CDC and expert sources from academia and government. The reporting draws attention to the overlapping effects of poverty, race, and pollution, aligning with progressive environmental health perspectives. Importantly, the piece is rigorously sourced, including citations from the CDC, EPA, WHO, and peer-reviewed researchers.
Another segment, “To Confront Climate Change, Imagine Getting It Right,” showcases marine biologist Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s optimistic, equity-focused framework for tackling climate change. While not partisan, the focus on systemic reform and future-oriented solutions reflects values commonly associated with the political left, particularly among younger and urban audiences.
Science Friday is committed to scientific accuracy, transparency, and education. Transcripts, source data, and expert credentials are frequently provided. The site makes its transcripts public, collaborates with educational institutions, and maintains high editorial standards across all content types.
Failed Fact Checks
- None found. Science Friday has not been subject to credible fact-checking controversies and is widely cited by mainstream and academic sources as a pro-science authority.
Overall, we rate Science Friday as Left-Center Biased, based on its consistent focus on environmental justice, public health equity, and climate resilience, alongside minimal coverage of conservative perspectives on science policy. We rate it High for factual accuracy due to rigorous sourcing, expert-driven analysis, and long-standing editorial integrity. (D. Van Zandt 07/03/2025)
Source: https://www.sciencefriday.com/
Last Updated on July 3, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources