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.