Journalists, I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore. We all want to make it to the Emerald City to see the Wizard, or to the job of our dreams, but first we have to remember three important rules to follow along the way.
Scarecrow: If he only had a brain. The first important rule to follow is accuracy. Readers look to journalists for news and if it is inaccurate then it has no value. Errors can be found in spoken words, charts, maps and other graphics. Inaccuracies can be inconveinent and can sometimes lead to serious consequences. An inaccurate conclusion can lead others to make wrong decisions based off of the the issue at hand. So don't just "have a head all full of stuffin'" Remember to check your facts!
Tin Man: If he only had a heart. The second important rule to follow is attention to libel. You should know the difference between defamation that is justified and critique with no defense. An example of defamation is accusing a person of a crime. To defend this statement you should be able to prove it to be true. Qualified privilege, fair comment and criticism, and public official/public figure rule can be other defenses for negative reporting. Remember to have heart and make sure you can backup your statement before ruining a person's reputation.
Cowardly Lion: If he only had the nerve. Journalists will take short cuts. The pressure of getting the scoop and avoiding the lions, tigers and bears can lead writers to make up or steal other's work... oh my! A strong sense of ethics is needed here. Attribution should be included and sources should be mentioned in the print story or linked in an online story. You have to have the courage to stand the storm and not cut corners to get your story out there.
You made it to the land of Oz! Watch out for wicked witches, flying monkeys and pay no attention to the man behind the curtain. Stay true to journalistic principles, legalities, and ethics.
1 comment:
Very nice blog post! Would you mind reading it in class?
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