Blogging ethics

"Conscientious journalists from all media and specialties strive to
serve the public with thoroughness and honesty"
"Code of ethics for bloggers"
    By: Magdalena Bush


Ethics are a fundamental aspect in journalism because it depicts a certain behavior that writers must follow.  Professional journalism requires specific standards, such as truth and making sure important information is not omitted. The understanding on how a journalist must operate seems to be clear, but should bloggers be held to the same standard? Just because a person blogs does not make him or her a journalist. Whether or not a person works for a company or is working independently, blogging is considered a part of journalism and needs guidelines just the same.



Bloggers Code Of Ethics.......

1. Be Truthful
     - Do the research it takes to make sure the information is accurate and honest. 
     - Do not fabricate or omit information for the sake of       
       good storytelling

2. Damage Control
     - Do not give the public information that they do not need. Anything that can cause a 
       person or the government any harm is dangerous. 
       "Be judicious about naming criminal suspects before the formal filing of charges" 
      - Do know what is legal before reporting. 

3. Liability
       - A journalist is obligated to the readers and their own writing. Be ready to stand by your
         work.
         "Journalists are accountable to their readers, listeners, viewers and each other"
      - Commit to regulations
         "Abide by the same high standards to which they hold others."

            Blogging Tips!!!


        
Bloggers express the First Amendment and are able to express freely their ideas and findings. Here are a few things to consider prior to blogging.....

1. Be YOU

 Try not to hide behind fake images and names. Let the audience know who you are so that you   can gain their trust. Being transparent and open will show you are serious. One way is to    name sources or share links.

2.  Have fun with your work


Unlike real journalism a blogger can have more fun and be creative with their work. Just remember to be respectful.

Allowing others to comment and participate in your blog also shows that you care about your audience.

3. Make a difference

Blogging is a part of citizen journalism and the restrictions are not as intense. Make sure your work is making a difference in society. Whether the story is entertaining or serious, blogging should be sincere and effective.



#JRN/350
#CodeOfEthics


References

estpj. "Got Ethics." [Online image] 16 February 2015. <http://etspj.org/about-us/spj-code-of-ethics/

iblogalot.com. "Blogs." [Online image] 16 February 2015. <http://iblogalot.com/2014/10/20/j-r-s-tips-for-new-bloggers

Jacquette, D. (2007). Journalistic Ethics: Moral Responsibility in the Media. Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database

rightspeak.net. "bloggers beware." [Online image] 16 February 2015. <http://www.rightspeak.net/2013/06/doj-may-come-after-those-who-slam.html

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