Application of Ethical Standards
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Application of Ethical Standards
One of the standards that should be applicable as far as the field of interest is concerned involves accountability and transparency. Under the Code of Ethics for the Society of Professional Journalists, journalists are advised to assume responsibility for their respective works and elucidate their decisions and choices to the people (SPJ, n. d.). In respect to the field of communications, the notions of accountability and transparency are essential since they necessitate the provision of resources used to ascertain the information provided to members of the society. In addition to this, the standard places significance on the disclosure of the resources that were used in order to deliver certain information for the aim of authenticity.
Another ethical point that is necessary in relation to communications involves autonomy or independence. As a generic ethical tenet, the concept of autonomy usually emphasizes a person or organization’s capacity to function without any coercion or influence from other parties (SPJ, n. d.). Relating to the field of interest, autonomy provides one with the platform to act on his or her own accord with the final aim being the provision of correct and unbiased information to the public. For instance, the journalist should not release information provided by parties seeking to profit or benefit from it. As such, the journalist should maintain an impartial relationship with all parties involved.
Lastly, the
minimization of harm assumes an essential role as far as the field of interest
is concerned. Under the respective tenet, emphasis is placed on the exhibition
of respect and dignity to sources as well as members of the society (SPJ, n.
d.). Concerning communications, it is imperative for the journalist to weigh
the consequences of the information that he or she plans to disseminate. While
transparency is necessitated, the individual should concentrate on the extent
of the implications that may arise depending on the information that he or she
possesses. Hence, as much as the person’s duty involves reporting and informing
the people, his obligation includes the protection of the people from the
harmful consequences that will be derived if such information is released.
References
Society of Professional Journalists. (n. d.). SPJ code of ethics. Retrieved from https://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp.