Media Ethics can Save the Public's View on Journalism

Amber Phipps

amphipps.1102@gmail.com

Source: https://www.spj.org/ethicsweek-whatisjournalism.asp

While most journalists and publications pride themselves on their impeccable morals and ethical guidelines, it seems the desire for views over truth is a road news outlets today are willing to go down. Who can we believe nowadays, when large news companies publish their morals and ethical codes for the world to view, yet struggle to follow them? What is the purpose of having ethical codes if the company isn't complying with them? 

Along with having a set of ethical codes, it is crucial that they are actually being enforced within the company's journalists and reporters. Too many times have large news corporations been exposed due to the failure to apply their own ethical guidelines. Yes, journalism is a form of freedom and shouldn't only be controlled by rules and regulations, but in order to respect privacy and gain back the trust of the public, ethical guidelines are essential. 

Ethical dilemmas have led to a broken relationship between the media and the public. One way that the ties between journalists and the public can be mended is by publishing the ethical guidelines and beliefs of the company. An example of this would be ethical handbook posted by The New York Times:

https://www.nytimes.com/editorial-standards/ethical-journalism.html#introductionAndPurpose

Providing these ethical guidelines that are accessible to the public keeps the actions of the journalist in check. Now, this might not always be the case due to the desire for greater achievements and recognition in the newsroom. A news company may have its ethical codes, but the individual also has free will. Despite the high standards of The New York Times, former reporter Jayson Blair lied his way through the ranks of a highly competitive newsroom. 

https://www.spj.org/ecs13.asp

In the world we live in today, where media surrounds us during all parts of our lives, who can we trust? With scandals occurring even amongst the most prestigious of news outlets, where can the public go for trustworthy and ethical information? The codes of ethics are there to not only protect news companies but also as a way to keep the public from harm and invasions of privacy. 

 It's crucial that we not only follow media outlets with ethical guidelines similar to our own but that we also acknowledge the importance of media literacy so we can distinguish between the rights and wrongs that occur within the news. The codes of ethics are there for a reason, and it's about time that we as journalists take them to heart and apply it within everything that we do.