Through Dr. Z’s news media ethics course, I have gained many insights on how journalists should handle certain situations, and how our actions can bring certain consequences. Although there were many significant ethical lessons I’ve learned throughout the semester, conflict of interest and the effect of journalist’s intervention stood out the most for me.
Journalists should not have their self-interest interfere with their reports and stories. Their interests or relations to a certain issue should not give any effect to their readers. Having opinions on certain issues is a journalist’s right, however, as a professional, they need to filter their opinions on a news coverage. Audience’s thoughts could be influenced by a journalist’s conflict of interests. Moreover, journalists should provide the public with free and self-governing information.
Often times, journalists will have situations where they need to make a snap decision on whether to intervene or not. Above all, we have learned that journalists should be observers, not participants. A journalist’s intervention could change the event that is being covered, making it no longer authentic. Journalists should report the story, not become the story. However, if a journalist is the best person or the only person that could save a life or prevent an injury, then they should help. Most importantly, we need to understand that there is a fine line between interfering and helping.
Through Steve Glass’ case, I’ve learned that having the audience’s trust is the one thing that is most important to a journalist. Glass’ act of deception and fabrication ultimately loses his credibility as a writer for the New Republic. Credibility is crucial for journalists to maintain their audience’s trust and attention. Without having a strong, positive bond with the reader, a journalist cannot continue to report. This case impressed me by showing me how important trust is. Once someone is caught lying, their reputation and trust is shattered. It is hard to gain back their respect, and being respected generalizes a journalist’s professionalism.
Most importantly, Dr. Z’s approach to this course brought out the importance of ethics in journalism. On our first day, Dr. Z wanted us to reach out to him and with our classmates. He taught us that having a connection and a relationship with our peers and our professor is important. He gave his student the assurance that he wanted to help and teach us, giving us the will to learn more through his class. Overall, through this course, I realized how crucial ethics are and there will always be difficult ethical dilemmas I will face. Observing case studies and understanding ethical principles will eventually benefit my professional career. The decisions journalists make affect real-life people; therefore, those actions will leave a lasting impact. Absorbing these lessons will hopefully cultivate me to be the journalist I want to be.