Independence vs Transparency in Modern Journalism

    A new concept introduced to me through this class has been the debate that transpires involving the ethical codes in journalism. As dynamic as journalism is, it is extremely difficult to keep up with the constant change that takes place in the field. What do we value most ethically? How does multimedia journalism impact reporting?  How do we battle misinformation stemming from the nature of new technology? These are all questions that culminate when discussing the nuance of modern journalism. These discussions have led us to question if our ethical codes need to be updated. One argument in particular that has piqued my interest has been the balance between independence and transparency. I would argue that in our current environment, we should lean towards transparency.

    

Source: The Art of Being Transparent

    The long standing notion has been to air on the side of independence. Reporters should not give their political opinions or anything that might give off any sort of bias that may be present. That was the philosophy for many as companies sought after 'objectivity.' However, that idea of objectivity will never truly be accomplished. No matter how hard we try to suppress it, everyone's worldview is based on what we grew up with, who we choose to spend time with, where we come from, etc. All these factors make us who we are and make us unique. I think we should embrace this fact instead of trying to hide from it. 

    Journalists Lionel Barber of the Wall Street Journal and Will Lewis of Dow Jones would disagree with this notion. They believe that a shift towards transparency would be a "blurring of fact and fiction."   Especially, when you consider the current media landscape. While it is true that there has been a huge issue with public mistrust, I do not believe muzzling journalists is a constructive solution. Chris Sutcliffe of Digital Content Next says, "the answer is not telling journalists to 'just stop it.' Instead, newspapers should lean harder into making their journalists the ambassadors of their brands, warts (and opinions) and all." 

    I agree that there needs to be a firm line between fact and fiction; however, I do not believe this is mutually exclusive from increasing transparency. In fact, I would argue that this would only bolden that line. If reporters are open and honest about their affiliations there is no ambiguity in their words. Transparency can help to build rapport with the audience and in turn build back trust. And as we all know, that relationship could use some help.