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The Importance of Journalistic Integrity

Any modern journalist is expected to abide by the code of ethics set forth by the Society of Professional Journalists, or SPJ. 

This code of ethics consists of four points:

  • Seek the Truth and Report it

  • Minimize Harm

  • Act Independently

  • Be Accountable and Transparent

These four points are the core of modern-day reliable journalism. However, journalists have not always abided by this code of ethics. [1] 

This blog seeks to illustrate that point. 

In addition to this code of ethics, there are certain traits expected of a reliable journalist. Author Rodger Streitmatter in his textbook "Mightier Than The Sword" outlines six traits he recommends for "anyone who practices the craft of journalism:"

  • Be willing to set an agenda

  • Be willing to break from the pack

  • Be willing to sacrifice financial gain for public good

  • Be willing to reach out to the politically or socially disenfranchised

  • Stay at the forefront of technological innovation

  • Don't be so arrogant as to think that journalism is the country's only institution of consequence

Although all of these traits are important for journalistic integrity, this blog will be primarily focusing on point three, be willing to sacrifice financial gain for public good. [2]

This blog will illustrate the importance of this trait by showing what happens when journalists abandon this principle. In addition, it will demonstrate how the public, through social media, is now able to hold those who do not display good journalistic practices accountable. 

Footnotes

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[1] “SPJ Code of Ethics - Society of Professional Journalists.” Society of Professional Journalists - Improving and protecting journalism since 1909, 2014. https://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp.

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[2] Streimatter, Rodger. Mightier than the Sword. New York, NY: Westview Press, 2016.

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