Moral minefields - legal and ethical dilemma

The final seminar presentation for the semester was conducted by Siobhan McAlary and Belinda De-Lasheras. A quote by LeMay (2003) was used at the beginning of the presentation which pointed out that "journalists are the ones who must daily consider both law and ethics in making judgements about what they publish." Such laws that LeMay is referring to includes the issue of defamation - journalists must consider whether their story will damage an individual or company's reputation, in terms of exposing them to hatred or ridicule. Furthermore, the issue of protecting sources was mentioned - in which journalists share information with the public, but also respect their sources wishes of privacy.

This was particularly evident in the feud that erupted last month between Fox Sports football presenter Robbie Slater and Socceroo Harry Kewell over the latter's apparent negative effect on the Australian team at the World Cup. Whilst Kewell demanded his source be exposed, Slater argued that the story was in the football public's interest and that he would respect the privacy of his source. The contents of the article could clearly have been deemed to have defamed Kewell's reputation and, if he followed through with his threat for legal action, Slater would have been forced to reveal his source or face contempt of court and a possible fine and/or jail time.

The above example not only highlights the legal dilemmas that confront journalists, but also the ethical ones. Slater should have acknowledged the effects that the story could not only have on Kewell in terms of his popularity and status, but also on the game in Australia. Another ethical issue, which was brought up by Belinda, is that of chequebook journalism. Whilst the industry is cut-throat and offering money could be the difference between getting valuable quotes on a lead story or not, I am of the opinion that it is not entirely ethical.

Although it claims to be justified in the search for the truth and public interest, I feel that these aren't always revealed anyway, as the interviewees could feel inclined to enhance their story as a result of being paid. A journalists reputation is their most important asset, therefore the legal and ethical dilemmas which could result from a particular story need to be considered and adhered to.