Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics

Ethics in Journalism
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Institution
Ethics in Journalism
As a journalist, one should always act in accordance with the SPJ or the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. According to these precepts, “public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy.” Therefore, as a journalist, one should always strive to deliver the truth, but this should also happen responsibly.
In the scenario at hand, as a journalist, instead of running with the story and joining others in publishing the gory images, I would choose the option of running a less objectionable photo. One of the precepts of SPJ asks that journalists minimize harm. One is therefore required to treat “sources, subjects, colleagues and members of the public as human beings deserving of respect.” With the above in mind, I will, therefore, choose to honor the little boy’s life by publishing the less jarring image. The above will happen wilt full acknowledgement of the first journalistic statute which states that all journalists should seek truth and report it. The truth is, I am required by the same statue to be a responsible journalist, and therefore, while the whole truth is expected from me, I am also expected to respect my audience and their diverse beliefs and views.
Another precept that supports my decision is the one that explicitly asks that I “show compassion for those who may be affected by news coverage. Use heightened sensitivity when dealing with juveniles victims of sex crimes, and sources or subjects who are inexperienced or unable to give consent. Consider cultural differences in approach and treatment.” People respond to news differently, a...