Codes of Ethics for Journalists
Because journalists have the important job of gathering information and presenting it to the public, they have a particular responsibility to their readers and their sources. On one hand, they must remember that their readers deserve clear, unbiased reporting. On the other hand, journalists need to consider the well-being of the sources whose lives are affected by media attention.
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History
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Published in 1956, "Four Theories of the Press," by Siebert, Peterson and Schramm, outlined the history of journalism, and how the groundwork was laid for modern journalistic ethics codes. Until the 17th century, journalism existed to support ruling, authoritarian governments. After 1688 in England, the press felt its responsibility was to put a check on government. Social responsibility theory posits that journalists have a duty to keep the public informed for its own good. This theory characterized 20th century reporting in countries that have a free press.
Contemporary Ethics Codes
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Today, many periodicals and professional organizations have their own codes of ethics that outline journalists' key responsibilities. Most ethics codes have points in common; for instance, reporters are never allowed to plagiarize. However, they may differ in some important regards: The New York Times Company, for instance, prohibits contributors from paying for an interview. CNN, ABC and NBC, however, have all paid to interview high-profile subjects.
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Gathering News
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Ethics codes for news outlets often have guidelines that relate to how reporters gather news. The Society of Professional Journalists, for instance, urges reporters to provide an outlet for all points of view--even those they personally detest; to avoid stereotyping by race, gender or sexuality; and to never omit important facts or otherwise distort information. The New York Times Company reminds journalists to maintain a professional distance from the people and issues they cover, and to pay for their own expenses to avoid being influenced.
Anonymous Sources
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Most news outlets require reporters to publish the names of their sources, with exceptions. The Associated Press allows anonymous sources if the information a reporter provides is crucial to reporting the story; if a source will not give a reporter the information otherwise; and if the source is known to be credible. The journalist should publish how a source would be in a position to know information--for instance, describing the source as a "State Department official" or "Defense Department official." A story cannot say that a source declined to comment if the source was quoted anonymously.
Respecting Sources
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The Society of Professional Journalists reminds reporters to have compassion for the people they cover, particularly non-public figures who have been adversely affected by current events--and remember that they have a strong right to protect their privacy. Journalists should also avoid naming sex crime victims and show caution when naming criminal suspects before they are formally charged.
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References
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