Journalistic Standards

I read a chapter from the book Mightier that the Sword, called, “How the News Media Have Shaped History: Focusing on the How.” This was an interesting read about the author’s opinion on what he thought to be common characteristics found in influential journalism. Particularly the organizations that covered 14 of the most historically influential events this country has seen. He made some very interesting points that I most likely would never have thought of otherwise.

He revealed that successful news reporters lead the news and do not merely report it. He stated, “Not for a moment did these fearless journalists waver in their commitment to excellence in news coverage...” Influential journalists try to get the information that is needed to sufficiently report the lead they are following. They do their best to report the whole story to the people, not just chapters of it. Good journalists are steadfast in reporting the news, and do not let self harm get in the way of reporting a story. Journalists do not hold personal interests above their duties as a reporter. Journalists also harness the powerful influence of visual pictures. Ultimately Rodger Streitmatter believes, “the news organizations that have taken leading roles in shaping this country have consistently recognized that the pen, as well as visual image, can be mightier than the sword-and mightier than tyranny or bigotry or demagoguery or political corruption.”

These principles have greatly influenced journalism throughout history. Propaganda in the most concealed form was being created by journalists who had the ambition and brains to be influential in the field of news media. These principles I think keep journalism the cleanest it can be. When journalists begin to stray away from these standards is when things can get dirty and American opinions soiled.

Source: "Mightier than the Sword" Written by Rodger Streitmatter, copywrite:1997