ABSTRACT
“Media ethics” may seem to be an oxymoron, but it’s not, according to this chapter, which provides ethical guidelines for beginning media professionals. Ironically, one reason for the perceived decline in ethical standards may well be the proliferation of media voices in the marketplace of ideas. Business pressure is hurting the quality of news coverage: To reach wider audiences, remain competitive in a 24-hour news cycle, and sell more advertising to make more profit, the media increasingly sensationalize stories and pay too little attention to complex news events. Chapter topics include appropriate relationships with news sources, guidelines for photography, and an examination of professional ethical codes. It is pointed out that most journalists and public relations professionals abide by standards reflecting a commitment to truth, accuracy, and a concern for the public well-being. Ideally, novice communicators are told, they should be the eyes and ears of readers, listeners, and viewers; informing the public, acting as a watchdog over government, business and industry, facilitating democracy, and serving as a medium of socialization.
