10.1 Journalistic codes of ethics in interviewing

Journalistic codes of ethics guide reporters in conducting interviews ethically. These codes emphasize accuracy, fairness, and minimizing harm to subjects. They provide a framework for responsible reporting that respects privacy while serving the public interest.

Ethical interviewing requires transparency, accountability, and adherence to professional standards. Journalists must balance the need for information with potential harm, maintain impartiality, and uphold the profession's reputation through ethical conduct and decision-making.

Fundamental Principles

Commitment to Accuracy and Truth

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• Journalists have a duty to report information accurately and truthfully
• Verify facts and sources thoroughly before publishing or broadcasting
• Acknowledge and correct errors promptly to maintain credibility (issuing retractions or updates)
• Avoid distortions, misrepresentations, or omissions that could mislead the audience
• Seek the truth and report it as fully as possible, even when it may be unpopular or uncomfortable

Fairness and Impartiality

• Cover stories with impartiality, presenting multiple perspectives and viewpoints
• Avoid bias or favoritism towards individuals, groups, or organizations
• Give subjects of critical coverage an opportunity to respond and present their side
• Clearly distinguish between reporting facts and expressing opinions or analysis
• Maintain independence from sources and avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise fairness

Ethical Conduct

Minimizing Harm and Respecting Privacy

• Balance the public's need for information against potential harm or discomfort to individuals
• Show compassion and sensitivity when dealing with inexperienced sources or vulnerable subjects
• Respect the privacy rights of individuals, especially in cases involving grief, trauma, or minors
• Carefully consider the implications of identifying suspects before they are formally charged
• Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort, but pursue the story if the public interest outweighs potential harm

Transparency and Accountability

• Be transparent about methods and motivations in gathering and presenting information
• Identify sources clearly, except in rare cases where anonymity is justified to protect vulnerable sources
• Explain ethical choices and processes to audiences, owning mistakes when they occur
• Respond to questions or criticisms about accuracy, clarity, and fairness in coverage
• Submit to public accountability through outlets like editor's notes, ombudsmen, or reader feedback

Professional Standards

Adhering to Established Codes of Ethics

• Follow widely accepted professional standards, such as the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics
• Act with integrity, avoiding plagiarism, fabrication, or undisclosed conflicts of interest
• Refuse gifts, favors, or special treatment that could compromise journalistic integrity or impartiality
• Support the open and civil exchange of views, even those they find repugnant
• Recognize a special obligation to serve as watchdogs over public affairs and government, holding the powerful accountable

Upholding the Profession's Reputation

• Conduct interviews and gather information ethically, without misrepresentation or subterfuge except in extraordinary circumstances
• Avoid stereotyping individuals or groups based on race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or other factors
• Examine their own cultural values and avoid imposing those values on others in their reporting
• Encourage a civil dialogue with the public about journalistic practices, coverage, and news content
• Expose unethical conduct in journalism, including within their own organizations, to maintain public trust in the profession