Tag: journalism and ethics

I do care deeply about truth and accuracy. I am a big fan of justice, but not justice at the cost of truth. There must be measured research and investigation for all the facts, not rumor and supposition. In addition, I know how damaging journalism as a profession can be to people. Just the scope of certain news stories damage people’s lives — especially people being charged with crimes.

We have the right to say whatever we want, right? Isn’t that what the First Amendment says? Not necessarily. While the First Amendment says Congress shall make no law abridging the right of free speech, there is no such restriction on the U.S. Supreme Court.

How can a news organization possibly cover a horrific community tragedy, respecting those most affected — victims, their families and friends — while simultaneously serving the larger community? Short answer: It is not always possible.

I am a student at Washington State University, a university that is not even ten miles away from the recent homicides of four students from the University of Idaho. As a journalist, and managing editor of the school paper, I have covered this story ever since WSU sent an alert to its students: “Moscow Police Department investigating homicide near University of Idaho campus. Not aware of any threat to the WSU Pullman Community.” But as a student, I was terrified.

For a variety of reasons, the story presented journalists with several ethical issues involving racial stereotyping and the qualities of complete, accurate reporting.

Journalism is a values-driven profession.