Journalism Code of Ethics: Minimize Harm

1. Considerate

1.1. Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for arrogance.

1.2. Be cautious about identifying juvenile suspects or victims of sex crimes.

2. Rights & Privacy

2.1. Recognize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than do public officials and others who seek power, influence or attention. Only an overriding public need can justify intrusion into anyone’s privacy.

2.2. Balance a criminal suspect’s fair trial rights with the public’s right to be informed.

3. Classy

3.1. Show good taste. Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity

3.2. Be judicious about naming criminal suspects before the formal filing of charges.

4. Main Points

4.1. All Journalists should keep the people of the interview in mind. Respect their rights, privacy, thoughts, and feelings.

5. Sensitivity

5.1. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects.

5.2. Be sensitive when seeking or using interviews or photographs of those affected by tragedy or grief:

6. Compassion

6.1. Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by news coverage