Action: Enforce Journalism Standards - Learn Them

Action:  Learn the definition and standards of Journalism to enforce these standards on miscreant journalists who bend a Reporters mandate for their own agenda. 

Here's the definition from Main Entry: jour·nal·ism Function: noun 1 a : the collection and editing of news for presentation through the media b : the public press c : an academic study concerned with the collection and editing of news or the management of a news medium

2 a : writing designed for publication in a newspaper or magazine  b : writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation c : writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest Journalism is ‘writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation [Italics mine]. You may surprised at definition (2c) – “writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest.” In many ways, this definition might apply to print and media journalists who cater to their clientele’s predetermined interests and beliefs. bi·as 'bI-&s

3 b : an inclination of temperament or outlook; especially : a personal and sometimes unreasoned judgment : PREJUDICE c : an instance of such prejudice. ob·jec·tive &b-'jek-tiv, äb- 3 a : expressing or dealing with facts or conditions as perceived without distortion by personal feelings, prejudices, or interpretations.

The Society of Professional Journalists has a Code of Ethics which says in its Preamble that “that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy. The duty of the journalist is to further those ends by seeking truth and providing a fair and comprehensive account of events and issues. Conscientious journalists from all media and specialties strive to serve the public with thoroughness and honesty. Professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist's credibility.”

In their Code of Ethics, they say: *Examine their own cultural values and avoid imposing those values on others. *Support the open exchange of views, even views they find repugnant.  Distinguish between advocacy and news reporting. Analysis and commentary should be labeled and not misrepresent fact or context.