Media law and ethics discussion
Outline of the question and answer
Question 1 editing photos for publication, particularly for journalistic purposes, is unacceptable mainly because it results in loss of original information and is considered unethical. However, some forms of editing are acceptable only if they are not destructive.
Question 2 According to the global and UAE professional codes of ethics of journalism, journalists are not allowed to offer or receive gifts in exchange for information from sources or to write news articled for particular organizations.
Question 3 posting and sharing personal information on social media requires one to follow the set code of ethics to ensure the shared information is not false or damaging to oneself or other groups of people. It is, therefore, wise to validate information before posting and considers its effect on the reputation of the targeted persons or organization.
Question 1
It is unethical to alter the content of a photo through editing mainly because original information and meaning might get lost. While editing a picture, a photographer should maintain the integrity of the image with its content and context. Therefore it is essential to practice non- destructive editing that does not harm the original file. Editing should not manipulate through altering or even adding sound effects to mislead the viewers of the subject. Besides, developing the nature of the photograph through making changes, in contrast, saturation levels and color are equally unacceptable in the code of ethics of photojournalists. Minor adjustments in Photoshop are, however, acceptable. These changes can include normal toning and color adjustments, conversion into grayscale, and other adjustments that are necessary for precise and accurate production. Additional exceptions for editing include the purpose or intention of the photo; if the picture was taken for artistic purposes, editing is unavoidable; however, photos serving journalistic purposes or for documentaries ethical considerations are essential before editing. Moreover, photos can be edited if the editing process does not change or alter the primary purpose of the picture.
Question 2
According to the global and UAE professional codes of ethics of journalism, journalists are not allowed to pay people or organizations that act as sources of information, material rewards in the form of gifts is equally unacceptable. Journalists must ensure there is no conflict of interest between them and the source, especially since this makes the source less credible and unreliable. Moreover, the set of ethics does not allow journalists to accept gifts, favors, or any form of compensation from the individuals or organizations they will be covering. These requirements are made to avoid biasness that may result to breach of the given code of conduct. Besides, asking for gifts in exchange for writing a news article about a person or a particular organization is punishable according to the rule of law. A journalist may, however, take the souvenir gift offered to the general public but not when performing his duties. However, journalists that receive gifts of material or sentimental value are required to inform their superiors to avoid acting unethically or going against the set guidelines and procedures. While this matter has been regarded lightly by most media personalities, it has resulted in undermining their credibility and accuracy. It has a long term effect on the news agency or media.
Question 3
Posting personal information on social platforms in most cases has been considered unadvisable, mainly because millions of people on the internet are possible targets of cyberbullying and cyber-related crimes. What is more, the ethics in the press and publication law prohibits posting and sharing personal information on social media. One is not supposed to publish reports, photographs, and comments that are related to a person’s private or family information, primarily when the information constitutes an abuse of reputations even if they are on a dependable basis. Posting personal affairs in social media may lead to damage of own reputation, fortune, or trademark, and therefore it is restricted. It is, therefore, advisable to analyze critical information before posting on any social media platforms. Additionally, it is essential to verify the information before sharing to avoid tarnishing the individual and organization’s reputation.
Work cited
Associated Press Code of Ethics for Photojournalists. www.csus.edu/indiv/g/goffs/135 photojournalism/Associated Press ethics code.pdf.
Altay, İbrahim. “Can Journalists Accept Gifts?” Daily Sabah, Daily Sabah, 12 Dec. 2016, www.dailysabah.com/readers-corner/2016/12/12/can-journalists-accept-gifts.