Graphic images have long been a source of debate when it comes to reporting. Many argue that publishing them is necessary and it adds context and gravity to a story, while others say that they are exploitative and unnecessarily violent. Both arguments have their pros and cons and there is no real right answer when it comes to this debate. It can really only be decided on a case by case basis and depends on the news organization and what they believe to be right.
There are a lot of nuances when it comes to the discussion of whether or not newsrooms and the media should publish violent and graphic images. It is not just black and white, right or wrong. Some argue that these images should be published. Even though this seems like a clear side of the argument, there are lots of small details that still influence this decision. There are lots of questions that need to be asked before making the final choice, such as can the story be told without the picture? Does the picture exploit or dehumanize its subject in any way? Or does the positive impact the picture may inspire outweigh any negativity? There is also the question of whether or not the news organization in possession of the pictures is obligated to publish them.
An article published by Time says that photographers feel that it is necessary to represent the deaths and injuries they witness and that their subjects, the victims of these crimes, often ask them to do so. The reporter who wrote this article argued that these photographs are necessary because they provide a point of reference for history, so future generations can understand what happened and the consequences.
Of course, there is the other side of the argument, those that say that graphic and violent images should not be published. Many believe that it is exploitative and unnecessary. They are harmful not only to the audience but to the journalists and photographers themselves. In fact, journalists are actually more vulnerable to the damaging psychological effects of these images than the general public is. The main problem is that there are no widespread rules or regulations when it comes to publishing graphic images. It is hard to measure the benefits or damages caused by making these pictures public when each news outlet does it differently. There is also the risk of overexposure. People today, especially with social media, are exposed to more tragedy than ever before, so much so that it can sometimes all blend together which makes it harder to care on an individual level.
When it comes to publishing graphic images the line between right and wrong often gets blurred. While there can be positive outcomes, such as inspiring action from those not being affected or simply bringing awareness to human rights violations, it is also important to always consider the negative impact that making violent pictures public can have. This is why it is important to approach the issue on a case by case basis and make sure to evaluate every possible side.
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