The concept of absolute versus relative truth is very important to understand to be an ethical journalist because it requires the evaluation of biased and unbiased information. An ethical journalist should be able to clearly distinguish between these two types to present reliable information. I know that when I'm a journalist my constant mindset when developing or covering a story will be to hear as many sides of the issue or situation as possible so that I can present credible reports! This video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jv-J_ArEJ8w provides further information regarding what it means to be an ethical journalist. The concept that information in news does not make it truthful is also critical to editing a report before broadcasting it. If it is news, it does not necessarily make it accurate because information can be skewed through human error or otherwise. A good journalist should always approach a story with an objective viewpoint until multiple sources have confirmed the information. This news story: http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/27/opinion/raines-class-warfare/index.html?hpt=hp_t2 is an opinion article, which is an example of when it is okay to be subjective rather than objective and no sources need to be cited unless used. I believe that the American audience should be trusted with more information so that they can make more informed decisions when voting and when deciding which issues are the most important in this country. Trust between the reporter and the audience is crucial, especially with today's technology and online forums. This article: http://www.poynter.org/how-tos/community-engagement/122806/highlights-from-sxsw-7-steps-to-building-trust-and-credibility-with-an-online-audience/ describes ways that journalists can build their credibility reputation and ultimately establish goodwill through their articles.
(word count: 253 words)
(word count: 253 words)
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