1. Responsible Journalism

2. Every staff should have a code of ethics to follow so that all members will understand what it means to be a responsible journalist. This can be a part of your policy manual. The code of ethics of the Society of Professional Journalists is a good model to follow.

3. The staff’s code of ethics should address some of the “danger zones” that journalists much watch out for: unsubstantial or fluffy writing, sensationalism, off-the-record information, investigative reporting, photomanipulation, personal ads, etc.

5. Seek truth and report it. Journalists should be honest, fair and courageous in gathering, reporting and interpreting information. Your staff’s code of ethics should specify guidelines for ensuring accuracy, objectivity, balance and fairness.

6. Act independently. Journalists should be free of obligation to any interest other than the public’s right to know. The code should state that journalists will not receive favors or gifts from anyone associated with newspaper business. The public may perceive this as a way these businesses are influencing the newspaper.

7. Be accountable. Journalists are accountable to their readers, listeners, viewers and each other. The code of ethics should stress the importance of serving your readers. It should include a commitment to correct mistakes promptly and to expose unethical practices by other journalists.

8. Minimize harm. Ethical journalists treat sources, subjects and colleagues as human beings deserving of respect. Encourage sensitivity, especially when covering controversial or emotional topics. Your code of ethics should include warnings against obscenity, invasion of privacy, libel, disruption, copyright violation, hate speech, false advertising, “fighting words”, and other forms of expression not protected by the First Amendment.