ABSTRACT
In this chapter, let’s take a look at some of the issues that confront journalists as they grapple with ethics. We can begin on Melrose Place in Los Angeles where the word has gone out that actress Tori Spelling is hosting a party at a popular teahouse. Outside, throngs of photographers, a scruffy lot in jeans and sweats, swarm by the security guard, poised for action. Someone spots an actressMichele Rodriguez-and the paparazzi (Figure 8-1) surround her, shooting fusillades of photos. It’s a feeding frenzy for the paparazzi. Rodriguez takes it in stride. Passing motorists glare at them. They are the same “entertainment journalists” who have contributed to automobile accidents, even death in the case of Princess Diana, and have made a habit of invading the privacy of many in the public light. Yet they routinely sell photos to the entertainment press and can earn more money with a few good pics than a straight news photographer makes in a year.
