I made what for me was a startling discovery the other day involving journalism ethics.
I was at a lunch attended by a number of journalists and non-journalists. One of the reporters said he would do almost anything to get a story, including stealing documents. As might be expected, several of the guests expressed shock at this disclosure.
It was during the ensuing debate, heated at times. that I made my discovery: many people, it seems, think journalists lie in wait to accost little old ladies, embarrass them and put their names and photographs on the front page or in the opening story of the local newscast.
What we journalists have failed to do, I discovered, is to make it clear we are not concerned about the private affairs of private individuals. but the affairs of those who have the most impact on our lives: politicians, business people and government employees at all levels.
What journalists have failed to do is distinguish between exposing public fraud and corruption, and exposing the private lives of private people.
Think about this for a moment: when was the last time you saw a story about the private life of a private person? I’d almost be willing to bet you never have.
But in looking over several news outlets I saw many stories about public figures and public issues.
Of course, I also saw some lighter pieces about some good things some good people were doing.
But I didn’t see one story that trafficked in embarrassing information about a private person.
After all, I bet close to 100 percent of readers, viewers or listeners couldn’t care less about your uncle Harry or your cousin Matilda. And I would also bet Uncle Harry and Cousin Matilda will never be in the news unless they commit a crime or get themselves involved in a public scandal.
In fact, they have more possibility of appearing in the news if they do something good for the community.
So, the next time you are tempted to criticize reporters for embarrassing people. Remember, if public people wouldn’t do anything to be embarrassed about, they probably wouldn’t be in the news in the first place.
I'm Larry Burriss
