Ethics: a system of moral principles. the rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class ofhuman actions or a particular group, culture.
Being ethical in the journalism industry is of most importance. One of the most questionable lines journalist tend to cross in the line of fact and fiction. In some instances, this line is clear as day, however, sometimes it is not as clear. There are principles to help journalist navigate between these blurred waters.
1. Be unobtrusive. Work diligently to gain access to people and events so you are not on the outside looking in. So you can obtain all of the facts clearly and avoid the “observer effect.” The “observer effect” is a principle applied in physics, which states that by solely observing an event changes it. So be in the event. Live the moment.
2. Avoid using anonymous sources. Avoid it at all cost- except in cases where the news is very important and the source is especially vulnerable. Whistleblowers quite often fall into this category, because they are exposing wrong doings.
3. Never put something in your story that you have not checked out to be true. There is always someone knowledgable and someone that knows the truth, so do not fall into the trap. Check every detail out- you may find a story in that.
4. Do not add. Adding to a story is false and you can be held liable. Career: over.
5. Do not deceive. This is obviously an ethical dilemma. Be aware, sometimes you can deceive and not be aware you are. Always check your word choice and how things come across. My tip: read it aloud and let someone else read it.
What tips do you have for keeping yourself ethical 24/7? What do you do in a sticky situation? Have a great day and I look forward to your comments!
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