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Michael Brown Code Of Ethics

Decent Essays

When you read several different news articles, have you ever noticed that they contain some similarities but not all? Have you noticed when journalists and reporters publish information to the public that it sometimes does more harm than good? Many of us portray the media differently and view things from different perspectives. In my paper, I will discuss the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, and how I would have acted as a media practitioner at the center of it.
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I have attached a relevant news story: http://www.cnn.com/2014/08/11/us/missouri-ferguson-michael-brown-what-we-know/ that briefly describes what took place on August 9, 2014, in Ferguson, Missouri. Michael Brown and his friend Dorian Johnson were …show more content…

40). Abiding by codes in the media industry is significant because codes promote ethical behavior. Don Lemon, a CNN journalist, spoke out and offered his own personal opinion that was directed to the parents of Michael Brown. He stated, “If any of you ever need anything, you know how to get in touch with me personally” (Byers & Gold, 2014). This was unethical because Don Lemon went from an independent journalist to clearly stating which side he was on. At all times, a journalist should and always remain unbiased when reporting. National journalists were injecting their own opinions for everyone to hear, which can make a situation more dangerous. People who work for the media should never state which side they are on so that there is not a lack of …show more content…

I believe that following these four principles properly will aid in more effective journalism. As a media practitioner, it is essential to not only seek the truth but also be able to report it to the public appropriately. Journalists should always be fair and honest when gathering and putting information together. Minimizing harm and acting independently in reporting is also crucial. Don Lemon did not follow either of these principles; he initiated more harm than good by expressing his own opinion. He should not have mentioned what side he was in favor of because it is unethical to do so as a journalist. Finally, being accountable is key in the media industry. If you show accountability for your actions, you likely will be perceived as credible and reliable. I would have utilized the SPJ Code of Ethics as a media practitioner, in this case, to address the audience

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