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.