Ethics in Journalism

Ethics in journalism is a topic that never seems to leave the spotlight. Why? Because journalists control the spotlight, thus, they are constantly in it. The media is often called the fourth branch of the government; its responsibility being to watch over the government for the people. Journalists talk about ethics because it is their guideline to follow. And they would rather have a guideline to follow than have to have severe checks and balances from the government. As a full supporter of democracy and freedom in all aspects of citizens lives, I believe it is a good thing that the media is not too overly watched over by the government, however, I also believe that even though the media tries to rein itself in with a sort of "code of ethics" they need to be watched over as well, a responsibility that should fall on the citizens of this country.

Ethics is currently in the limelight because of recent sexual allegations brought against presidential candidate Herman Cain. Cain is calling himself a victim of the media. He blames the media rather than the women who have accused him of extremely inappropriate behavior. He says he has become the victim of sensationalism, hidden agendas, and anonymous sources. When a reporter tried to ask Cain about the accusations Cain scolded the media saying, "Don't even go there."

“Can I ask my question?” the surprised reporter asked.

“No!” Cain replied, before adding, bafflingly: “Where’s my chief of staff? Please send him the journalistic code of ethics.”

THIS was weird. I don't understand what Cain was thinking. He is running for president of the United States of America. Examining the relationship between Cain and the women at the restaurant association is exactly the role of the press! Sexual harassment is a legitimate area of inquiry especially when the person being accused of it is a possible candidate to lead the strongest most influential country in the world.

The media in this case has been doing what it should for the citizens of America. They have exposed unethical practices that have been alleged against a very important person and journalists have been attempting to clarify and explain this situation for the citizens of this country. It is now in our hands to decide whether or not Cain and others like him are being victimized by sensationalism in the media.

Watchdog Journalism

Journalism has always been and will continue to be a rather dangerous career. Some people, mostly criminals, do not like journalists. When journalists start reporting on touchy subjects and being 'watchdogs,' situations can get dicey. The recent uprisings in Libya, Egypt, and Tunisia have been especially interesting to watch in relation with journalism.

Before the uprisings began in Libya, I’m not sure that many people cared or even were aware of the dictatorship that was in place there. Even after the protests started, real concern and outrage did not occur until we were given pictures and video evidence of the tyranny. I think that the rebellion would have continued without the journalists and that the frustrations of the citizens of Libya would have sustained the protests for a while, but the world would not have been fully aware of the situation without journalists there showing us. And without the world being aware what was going on, it is very likely that the United Nations would have placed less urgency on protecting the citizens or doing something about Gadhafi. I think that the journalists may have given more hope to the citizens there that something good might actually come out of the protests and I think that plays a distinct part in watchdog journalism.

These varying situations of danger will continue to occur for journalists, whether because of protests, war, or natural disasters, and with them come instances where journalists have to make the decision of crossing previously set boundaries. I am talking about the times when journalists have to decide whether to lend a helping hand if it is needed, or to ignore the calls for help and walk away. These boundaries are what some call ethics, but I would say that ethics is the wrong word. I believe that it is unethical for someone to walk away when life or death is on the line, if one is able to help. I think its absolutely ridiculous to even ask the question: should journalists help out in a life-threatening situation or should they stand back in order to remain independent (a laughable concept anyways) from those they are covering? Journalist or not, if you have the ability to help someone in need, do it. It is not a matter of ethics, image, or controversy, its a matter of humanity and equality. Saving a life, or even helping to save one is more important than ANY job. And you're a tremendously arrogant SNOB if you think otherwise.

The video above, of Anderson Cooper carrying a gravely injured boy out of the line of dangerous looters, is an amazing and moving example of compassionate heroism. The boy was clearly in shock and could hardly stand; he was not capable of getting himself some help. What Cooper did was the only right thing to do and it's what everyone should have done - journalists included.

Diversity

I remember my first experience with racism very distinctly. When I was eleven years old I was talking to a boy my age, James, down the street. With me was Maya, a little African American girl that I considered to be my sister. My mom and her mom were best friends and I had known Maya since she was born. While we were talking to James, his twin brother came outside. James called to his brother to come over but the boy shook his head and stood staring at us. I asked him what was wrong and he said that he was scared. I asked why and he responded by pointing at Maya. I was shocked....floored. I probably didn't have the best reaction, I believe I said something along the lines of, "Are you freaking kidding me?? What decade are you living in?? You better shut up and get over yourself!" Yea, not exactly my shining moment, but hey. It was my first experience with blatant racism.

I've never had another experience quite like that one since. And for a good reason. Diversity is everywhere and in general Americans are accepting of all kinds of diversity. Of course, there are some things that still need to be worked on but things are improving. Diversity is not only race. Gender, economic status, and religious backgrounds all contribute to diversity in America.

Diversity in journalism is key to knowing your audience and communicating well with them. While each journalist should not place too much emphasis on their background, they certainly can use it to make sure that different perspectives are not forgotten in the news. In this way, there will be less holes in their coverage. Because America is so diverse, the news media has a responsibility to cater to that diversity. Opinions should not be ignored simply because they are the minority. That truth is at the heart of democracy.