the tenets of media ethics in chapter 9

the tenets of media ethics in chapter 9

This reflection paper discusses and analyses the tenets of media ethics in chapter 9. The tenets govern how media professionals should conduct themselves when collecting news. It is essential to adhere to ethical principles in media reporting.

There are four tenets of media: first, media reporters should always produce truthful news. The concept of truthfulness is quite significant, considering the impact of fake news and the primary roles of media personnel. Media people are tasked with being a watchdog of the masses by reporting factual content. However, breaching of that code can impair the integrity and credibility of media. Social media platforms have come under attack for spreading non-factual and biased news. This is because they go against the very first principle, which is the basis of ethical media reporting. Moreover, media people report news from different segment of society, and that calls for fairness. Media should be impartial in its responsibilities. Biased media reporting can lead to a poor painting of the real picture and public disgruntling. It is thus essential for media reporters to analyse an issue and present it clearly to the public. Thirdly, while media people may be interested in reporting interesting news, they must consider the protection of the people involved. Every human deserves respects, and media people must find a way to balance between a story and promoting the privacy of the victim. However, when serving the common good, private life may be made public. Finally, media people should know that they are accountable for their actions. As a consequence, there is a need to be independent, accountable, impartial, and accurate. When errors are made, media people should own to their mistakes and exhibit a level of professionalism and responsibility. Understanding the tents of media reporting was not challenging because the issues are straightforward. These tenets not only apply in media but can be used daily to promote ethical or moral decision making and high levels of integrity. Media channels have always reported issues in a nonpartisan approach, and one that I have grown keen interest with is CNN and especially because of the American presidential elections. CNN does a fact a fact check on what people say and allows the audience to make a decision. Factual reporting ensures that media people reduce the probability of reporting lies. Also, in social media, I involve myself in truthful reporting and avoid indulging myself in issues that may compromise my integrity. Knowing the tenets of ethical media is important because people can apply them in their daily lives, especially in this age where an array of social media tools surrounds us. The proposal by the government to pass anti-fake news shows us the extent of how fake news is destroying our society and the need to take appropriate measures.

In conclusion, media people should get themselves acquainted with tenets of ethical reporting. This is because the tenets guide people to make moral decisions upholding the positive image of the media profession. Moreover, the concepts are also crucial in our daily life especially when using social media