The importance of avoiding conflicts of interest in journalism

The importance of avoiding conflicts of interest in journalism

Logan Humphrey

lh129720@ohio.edu

Attribution: Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

One ethical dilemma that occurs very often within the journalism field is conflicts of interest. Some conflicts include reporting on a source involving a personal relationship, while others include receiving favors or gifts from another party that might construe a journalist's credibility. Interests that conflict with the profession are often unavoidable and should be looked up more discreetly. With all the consequences, averting these disputations should be a top priority for journalists of all fields. 

Avoiding these conflicts allow for more fairness and transparency to seep into our work. Fairness and transparency will then contribute to earning the trust and respect of possible readers or clients. Independently serving the public is a top priority for journalists, ensuring that conflicts of interest will not compromise integrity. 

All journalist professionals avoid conflicts of interest, exclusively adding to their code of ethics. Several of the different Codes of Ethics have discussed the importance of avoiding conflicts. The PRSA Code of Ethics stresses conflicts of interest to a heavy extent, requiring PR practitioners must follow some guidelines. Those guidelines include disclosing previous conflicts of interest to those affected and avoiding actions that might compromise judgment or create conflicts between personal and professional interests. 

As easy as it is to write or report on someone you are close to or have as an acquaintance, it's essential to stand your ground so that these conflicts do not occur more often. Critics in the music journalism field express their struggles of having to stand their ground as to how far a relationship can go with musical artists to avoid future conflicts. Unfortunately, clients (like musical artists) can take advantage of writers, possibly by sending gifts or favors to influence a report. 

Several other ways could prevent any detrimental conflicts. Several ways include the journalist acting independently by making a conscious effort to avoid possible conflicts. For example, while it is ethical for journalists to refuse any monetary gifts, journalists in return should give their money by donating to activists or political groups. That way, they can ensure their credibility and trust. Similarly, journalists must be wary of their political activity to allow for transparency and individuality. 

Overall, journalists need to avoid conflicts of interest and act independently to gain respect from their audiences. Avoiding these conflicts can be extremely difficult, but not engaging in them would make an incredible difference in journalism.