SPJ Code of Ethics

the SPJ Code of Ethics is a statement of principles that are supported by explanations and position papers which address changing journalistic practices. although it is not a set of rules, it is a guide that encourages all who engage in journalism to take responsibility for the information that provide. the reason it cannot be a set of rules is because under the First Amendment it cannot be legally enforced. the four principles of the Code of Ethics are journalists should Seek Truth and Report it, Minimize Harm, Act Independently, and Be Accountable and Transparent. the first principle Seek Truth and Report it is because journalism should be accurate and fair. other parts of this principle include that journalist should: "take responsibility for the accuracy of their work, remember that speed and format are not excuses for inaccuracy, provide context, gather/ update and correct information throughout the life of a news story, be cautious when making promises, keep the promises they make,  and identify sources clearly"

because sources, colleagues and members of the pubic are human beings, ethical journalism treats them with respect. in order to Minimize Harm journalist should: "show compassion for those who may be affected by news coverage, avoid pandering to lurid curiosity, even if others do, balance a suspect's right to a fair trial with the public's right to know, and other actions"

the primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public; therefore, journalist should Act Independently. which includes: avoiding conflicts of interest, refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel, and special treatment, be wary of sources offering information for favors or money, deny favored treatment to advertisers, distinguish news from advertising.

ethical journalism means to be Accountable and Transparent; take responsibility for one's work and explain one's decision to the public. this means journalist should: "explain ethical processes and choices to the audience, respond quickly to questions about accuracy, clarity and fairness, acknowledge one's mistakes and fix them, and abide by the same standards they expect of others."


Image result for seek the truthImage result for minimize harmImage result for spj code of ethics
all information was obtained from the SPJ website.

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