By NiaLaren Davis (initial publication for The Gleaner fall 2019)

         The public’s trust in journalism and media is significant, especially in today’s time. Often, people do not trust the media and do not view it as an authentic entity. Journalism serves as a mouthpiece for the public and shapes how opinions and subjects are portrayed in the world. With the responsibility of providing information, journalists must view ethics as a necessity. 

The most vital aspect of the Code of Ethics is the practice of seeking and reporting truth. The current media climate is centered around what deserves praise as newsworthy and people want a clear distinction between what is real and what is not. The “truth” may develop over time, but it is the job of the deliverer to follow it continuously until a solid conclusion is reached. An individual’s credibility is very important and must be maintained throughout their career and throughout their life. The application of seeking and reporting truth carries many different interpretations.

The general consensus is that journalists should take responsibility for their pieces. They must ensure that their work and motives are as transparent as possible, given the situation. While full transparency with sources is sometimes necessary, anonymity should be taken into consideration. Recently, controversy arose when The New York Times published details of a whistleblower’s identity. This information has the potential of causing bodily harm to the whistleblower, as the nature of the content involves many high-profile individuals.  After a public outcry, the executive editor was forced the address the concerns. Due to the fact that public questioned the motives, The New York times had to explain and stand by their ethical decision. They believed that withholding the information did not equate to being transparent, which is needed to promote truth-telling.

The code also notes that there is no excuse for inaccuracy, especially in regard to speed and format. For example, a correction in the Washington Post stated that “an earlier version of this story incorrectly located Brooklyn in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is in New York”. While the mistake may seem minor, it runs the risk of false information being delivered to a wide, and international, audience. Also, by the time corrections are applied, the initial number of viewers will not see it.  Many readers begin to question media outlets if a long list of corrections follows an article. It is best to be as accurate as possible the first time around. 

         In conclusion, the Code of Ethics is more important today than it has ever been before. The overall distrust of the media requires journalists to go the extra mile to prove the authenticity of their work. The job comes with a vast platform and responsibility. World views and opinions hang on the foundation that journalists and media specialists are being truthful and accurate.