Traditional media has a code of ethics that all journalists are aware of, whether they adhere to them or not it another thing. Online journalism should be no different to traditional journalism but there seems to be a trail of missing ethical standards.
The Online Journalism Review deals with all aspects of the world of online journalism. Robert Niles is a regular contributor and argues that the age old code of ethics laid out for the traditional media are the same ethics that modern journalists in online journalism should adhere to. His article, What are the Ethics of Online Journalism?, states clearly a few simple and basic rules that should be stuck to.
- No plagiarism: In more simple terms, don’t steal others work.
- Disclose, disclose, disclose: Tell your readers how you got your information.
- No gifts or money for coverage: Don’t accept money from sources and don’t ask for it.
- Check it out, then tell the truth: Truth is the basis for trust in the media. Help regain dying trust in the industry by being truthful.
- Be honest: May seem like the same as telling the truth but in this case it can be taken as don’t have ulterior motives and be clear about why you are reporting.
