It is hard to believe that the end of the semester is already here. I thought the semester might feel longer due to quarantining during the coronavirus but instead, it passed by quickly. When I first selected to take News Media Ethics, I expected a course that would challenge me to think beyond the surface level; I expected to learn more about following a moral code. Now that we are at the end of the course, I can confidently say, my expectations have been met.
During the course of the semester, I learned quite a few ethical lesions from lectures, readings, and case studies. But the two most influential ethical lessons I learned were four classic theories of ethics and the guiding principles. Together, those two lessons lay the groundwork for all further analysis of ethics and decision making in news media. The four classic theories of ethics – rule-based thinking, end-based thinking, the Golden rule, and Aristotle’s Golden Mean – help us (journalists, communicators, decision-making) decipher how to approach decisions; put into perspective what outcome is the most important. The guiding principles of ethics assist us in recognizing what is important and right when reporting. It serves as a checklist, not a substitute for the process, of making news-coverage decisions. Seek truth and report it, Minimize Harm, Act Independently, and Be accountable and transparent. With these two lessons, the foundation of being an ethical news reporter is set.
While we have analyzed a lot of cases, the case that impressed me the most was one of the first ones – Steven class and fabrication. I was first introduced to the case in this news media ethics class and did not expect the turnout when we watched Shattered Glass – definitely a plot twist. I think this was a great case to start the course off with because it served as a great example of what not to do as a journalist and the best way to handle it if it happens. I think the news organization (editor and staff) at The New Republic handled the situation responsibly and well. This case emphasized the importance of following the guiding principles of ethics.
I think this course will have a major impact on my future career and life as a professional communicator but also as an individual as it has already done. Prior to the course, I had a somewhat concrete moral standard but now as I continue my life outside the class, I have a better tactic in addressing and making decisions in tough situations.
Overall, I enjoyed my time in this course because I gained so many skills I lacked at the beginning of the semester. I was lucky enough to have Dr. Z back to back as I was also a student in his Journalism and Social Media Analytics class. I am excited to continue a relationship with him as I feel there is so much I can learn through his mentorship as I begin working on my Honors thesis. This is definitely a course I would recommend to my peers.
