Transparency and conflicts of interest

Amber Dossenback

ad413517@ohio.edu 

 

 

Understanding conflict of interest

A journalist's intentions and influences can be a bit deceiving at times. Most consumers are not fully aware of the agreements that take place behind the scenes. Using SPJ's code of ethics, as well as other reputable sources, I was able to better understand the meaning behind the phrase "conflict of interest" and its impact on the relationship between consumers and media outlets.

Defining the phrase

Conflict of interest is a phrase that describes instances where supposedly impartial bodies in media hold personal stakes in a situation or issue. The University of Texas explains the concept as, "arising when what is in a person’s best interest is not in the best interest of another person or organization to which that individual owes loyalty." This blurs the line between consumers and media because consumers expect journalists to work independently and be transparent. Some codes to take into considerations when referencing SPJ's code of ethics are, "avoid conflicts of interest; real or perceived, refuse gifts, beware of sources offering information or favors,  and expose unethical conduct." 

The Rosenthal rule

Abe Rosenthal was executive editor of the New York Times in 1970. He was known for his zero tolerance policy on opinionated reporters in journalism, especially within his organization. A new reporter was welcomed to NYT followed by an unhesitant termination by Rosenthal. The reporter in question admitted to accepting gifts from and having romantic involvement with a politician she often covered for stories. Based on this instance, Rosenthal was then known for his rule regarding conflicts of interest in journalism. The rule reads, "I don’t care if you (fornicate with) an elephant on your own time, but if you do, you can’t cover the circus for this paper,” according to Observer-Reporter. This metaphor has since set the tone for journalist C.O.I. expectations, emphasizing the ethical issues that come with inappropriate relationships during work. 

Picture source: Jerz's literacy weblog

                                                           

Avoiding conflicts of interest

It is important for journalists to avoid conflicts of interest at all costs in order to maintain/build the trust between consumers and media. Though this can be challenging when faced with temptation, there are many ways to handle this professionally in order to uphold ethical standards of journalists. From my knowledge based on what I have learned in the class so far, I would offer journalists the following suggestions to avoid conflicts of interest.

• Avoid covering those you have a relationship with. Reporting on spouses, parents, family members, and friends provides consumers with unreliable journalism, because biases on individuals have already been built.

• Do not accept any gifts, favors, money, or time from sources or other organizations in exchange for an act.

• Avoid participation in political activities including movements, protests, or rallies. Publicly supporting one party will imply you report with a bias mindset based on your political preferences. It is better to remain neutral to the public.

• Successfully distinguish between work relationships and personal relationships. Building personal relationships through your organizational network can rely a message of suspicion to viewers. In order to maintain transparency within the media, avoid having relationships with clients and sources beyond work.