What is commonly understood as a bias?

A bias is understood as a personal opinion because it reflects an individual's subjective perspective rather than an impartial or factual standpoint. Bias occurs when people allow their feelings, beliefs, or experiences to influence their judgment about a particular issue, which often leads to favoritism or unfair conclusions. This personal viewpoint can cloud their analysis or understanding, making it less reliable compared to an objective evaluation or a decision grounded in factual information.

In contrast, an informed decision is based on a thorough understanding and reflection of the facts rather than personal feelings. Objective analysis involves examining information without personal influence, while a scientific fact refers to verifiable information derived from empirical research. These options represent a more neutral and factual basis of understanding, distinct from the inherently subjective nature of bias.