ZAMEER SAFVI
It is said that ,”The journalistic code of ethics governing the broadcasts requires that opposing views be presented, and that journalists’ personal opinions or judgments be left out of factual reporting”.
In the realm of journalism, ethics serve as the bedrock upon which trust and credibility are built. The journalistic code of ethics mandates the presentation of opposing views, while demanding that personal opinions remain separate from factual reporting. However, in today’s digital age, the integrity of journalism faces unprecedented challenges, as the proliferation of amateur journalists threatens to undermine these fundamental principles.
Earlier, sources of information were limited, yet they typically provided accurate information. Becoming a journalist was not an easy task; it required courage and diligence. A journalist must possess a profound understanding of journalistic ethics and thoroughly research any topic before publication. Journalists dedicated extensive time to fieldwork, meticulously validating facts before presenting any story or news item.
At the heart of journalism lies a commitment to objectivity, fairness, and accuracy. Objectivity, in particular, is essential for maintaining the trust of the audience, who rely on journalists to deliver factual information free from manipulation. While objectivity does not equate to neutrality, it entails a dedication to fairness and truth in reporting.
It’s true that technological advancements have brought both benefits and challenges, and misuse is unfortunately a part of that reality. In journalism, the rise of citizen journalism and social media platforms has blurred the lines between professional reporting and amateur content creation. It’s important to promote media literacy and critical thinking to discern credible sources from misinformation and propaganda.
The advent of social media has democratized the field of journalism, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the fray. Unfortunately, this democratization has also paved the way for unqualified individuals to proclaim themselves as journalists, without adhering to ethical standards or receiving proper training. As a result, sensationalism and misinformation have proliferated, with some individuals prioritizing fame and attention over journalistic integrity. It’s unfortunate that some individuals who claim to be journalists lack the professionalism and ethical standards expected in the field. True journalism requires integrity, objectivity, and respect for the truth. Using platforms for personal gain rather than serving the public interest undermines the credibility of journalism as a whole. It’s important to hold accountable those who misuse their positions and advocate for ethical reporting practices.
One of the ethical considerations journalists prioritize is the language they employ. They must be mindful of their choice of words and how they communicate with the public. Journalists are tasked with bringing attention to societal issues and aiding the public. However, a concerning trend among self-proclaimed social media journalists is their lack of decorum in communication. They often express themselves aggressively, revealing their immature ethical standards through their demeanor. Additionally, their approach to reporting tends to lack objectivity, as they often resort to sensationalism and personal judgment rather than impartially presenting facts. It is imperative that journalists refrain from assuming the role of judges and allow the legal system to handle matters of judgment.
The actions of these self-proclaimed journalists have not gone unnoticed, tarnishing the image of the profession and eroding public trust. Where journalism was once regarded as a beacon of hope and impartiality, it is now viewed with skepticism and suspicion. The proliferation of sensationalist content has further exacerbated this distrust, leaving audiences disillusioned and craving authenticity.
It is imperative that steps be taken to preserve the integrity of journalism in the face of these challenges. Governments must play a role in defining who can rightfully claim the title of journalist, setting standards and accreditation processes to uphold professional standards. Additionally, collaboration between journalists and administrations is essential in safeguarding the profession against further degradation.
In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and evolving media landscapes, the need to uphold journalism ethics has never been more pressing. As guardians of truth and accountability, journalists must remain steadfast in their commitment to objectivity and integrity. By taking collective action to address the challenges posed by amateur journalism, we can ensure that the profession remains a beacon of trust and credibility in an increasingly complex world.
The author can be mailed at raza.zameer@gmail.com