Do Ethics Codes Work?

Samantha Skvarek
ss062718@ohio.edu

Codes are very important part of work when it comes to communications. There must be a set of rules in place for journalists to follow. Journalists and even advertisers create the voice for the people. The code of ethics allows readers to be protected. Journalists are supposed to be honest, independent, and advocate.

I really think the code of ethics is not working. I think partially the code of ethics may not be clear. I think the objectives are now laid out very clearly. For organizations to successfully follow the codes it needs to be clearly written. The other main issue the codes need to address is they need to go along with the mission of the organization. I really think this lacks all around. I will say that companies can be very honest. When they present material they tend to be accurate. Not only are the accurate they tell the truth. Telling the truth is one of the most important aspects of being in communications. If you are not truthful, people will not want to read what you are putting out.

Part of being honest means that you have expertise. Expertise means that the writers are doing their homework. Their homework is to do the research and present that accordingly. I think that by researching and presenting it in a way holds journalists in accountable. Journalists are given too much independence. The problem with independence is the journalists do not care what happens when something goes wrong. Journalists should be held accountable for their actions. I also think that the higher ups within the company should be held accountable as well.

I think unrealistic expectations ruin the codes for people. I think fairness really gives people what they need. Everyone deserves to express opinions. That is one part of the code that companies and organizations need to strive for better. Feedback is important when it comes to regaining control over journalism. Fairness allows readers to express those opinions freely and openly. Being able to do helps companies grow. Something companies and organizations truly lack.

Codes of ethics remind me of classroom rules. Children need to follow them in order to succeed throughout their days in school. Without them it would be mad chaos. The same goes for journalism. Without code of ethics, journalists would be writing off the charts. Not only does this affect journalists but it also affects advertisers. In the end code of ethics really pushes writers to be better. They are able to provide better content. In the end a set of rules needs to be in place for everyone.

  

Resources:

Brewer, D. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from http://mediahelpingmedia.org/training-resources/editorial-ethics/239-fairness-in-journalism

Carr, D. (2014, November 03). Journalism, Independent and Not. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/03/business/media/journalism-independent-and-not.html

Turteltaub, A. (2016, August 25). Ethics for ethicists? A Code of Ethics and Compliance Professional. Retrieved from http://complianceandethics.org/ethics-for-ethicists-code/