We can get knowledge from news, but some people think we can’t trust the journalist. Discuss and give your opinion. What do you think are the important qualities that a journalist should have?
Yes
- There have been cases, although rare, infrequent, sporadic which have cast a doubt on the sanctity of this profession. Some people are stimulated by commercial compulsions: viewership and readership ratings
- Political correctness has also had a corrupting influence on them. They are driven by the majority opinion. They avoid derision and indignation of the masses and their fraternity
- influence of elite and powerful who reward them for the
No
- Barring a few, most are devoted to this noble task, they never let any kind of inducement interfere with their professional objectives.
- They risk not on their but also the lives of their family members
- They are non-judgemental and present news as it is.
Qualities
- Unbiased, impartial
- Non-judgemental
- Empathetic - must practice self censure to avoid presenting news in such way that could cause social discord
- Fear less
- Incorruptible
- Good communicator
- Having knowledge of the subject, they are presenting reports about
Although many question the credibility of contemporary journalists, this notion is misplaced. I feel that excluding exceptions, most professionals in this domain strictly adhere to the fundamental tenets of their occupation, and exercise fairness.
The apprehension casting doubts on the integrity of correspondents is their craving for gaining visibility together with prosperity quickly. This persuades them to compromise with their principles and resort to either leaning towards political correctness, or distorting the information to create sensation and gain popularity. For instance, some reporters, especially the ones covering ‘the Gulf War’ were blamed for being highly biased, and presenting lopsided details despite knowing that the majority of their audience is already well-informed about the causes and circumstances of the conflict.
Nevertheless, although the concerns highlighted are not unfounded, such reporters are anomalies; an overwhelming majority remain devoted to their professions, and practice transparency. They always quote all possible angles of an event, and present the news as it is without being judgemental. To exemplify, the award-winning press woman, Ms. Kassa was praised highly for investigative journalism in the famine plagued Ethiopia.
To be considered reliable, news professionals must be incorruptible, fearless, and defiant of the compulsions - greed for money, and influence of the powerful - that coax them to go astray, and instead comply with the ethics of their trade. To corroborate, it is easy to find dedicated media men, and women, worldover hopping jobs frequently simply because they refuse to yield to the owners of media houses, or the temptations to amass wealth.
To reiterate, notwithstanding the unscrupulous minority, a majority engaged in journalism remain committed to their work by upholding unbiased character, and demonstrating ethical behaviour. They remain insulated from all kinds of personal and professional influences, and never deviate from their path.
