Question

Which journalistic decisions would violate the code of ethics set by the Society of Professional Journalists? Select two options.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. A reporter writes a story about his wife’s company without revealing their relationship.

D. A magazine runs a series of articles speculating about a celebrity’s medical history.

Explanation:

The Society of Professional Journalists is a body that manages the affairs of journalists. They stipulate some code of ethics, which members are expected to abide on. These code of ethics emphasize on transparency and accuracy in reporting. There are four foundations on which these ethics are hinged, namely;

• Seek Truth and Report it
• Minimize Harm
• Act independently
• and Be accountable and Transparent.

A journalist would be violating the requirement to act independently when he refuses to report that his wife works for a company he is reporting on. This will reveal a conflict of interest.  The journalist would not be minimizing harm when he runs an article, speculating about a celebrity's medical history.