ABSTRACT
The Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics addresses a number of issues related to accountability. The Radio Television Digital News Association code addresses issues such as truth and accuracy, independence and transparency, and accountability for consequences. As a result of errors that are published or broadcast, print journalists and broadcasters often issue clarifications and corrections. In extreme cases, erroneous news stories are subject to retractions. One of major advantages of having a diverse newsroom is that reporters from different backgrounds will do a better job of reporting on issues related to their backgrounds. Throughout latter half of the 1900s, many major daily newspapers employed individuals known as ombudsmen or public editors who were assigned to play “devil’s advocate” by representing the interests of the readers in newsroom discussions of content decisions and field readers’ complaints submitted by mail, email, telephone, and in person. Most reporters and editors use the term “anonymous sources,” but more correct term is “confidential sources.”.
