Some standards
SPJ sez: Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for arrogance. Recognize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than do public officials and others who seek power, influence or attention. Only an overriding public need can justify intrusion into anyone’s privacy.
Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by news coverage. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects. Be sensitive when seeking or using interviews or photographs of those affected by tragedy or grief.
Be judicious about naming criminal suspects before the formal filing of charges. Balance a criminal suspect’s fair trial rights with the public’s right to be informed.
Talk to people with whom you do not agree — people you may find personally or professionally repugnant quite often have very interesting things to say. If you are writing a flattering story about someone, you should not speak only to that person; if you are writing an unflattering story about someone, you should make sure to speak to that person.
SPJ sez: Diligently seek out subjects of news stories to give them the opportunity to respond to allegations of wrongdoing.
Fail gracefully: take criticism and corrections as opportunities.
SPJ sez:Admit mistakes and correct them promptly.
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bradgerick reblogged this from cjs-bay and added:
Great advice; easy to lose sight of these things.
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cjs-bay posted this
