ERIC Number: ED208396
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1981-Aug
Pages: 23
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Virtuous Journalist.
Kirkhorn, Michael J.
Virtue in journalism implies a clearsighted expansion of outlook and requires determined attempts to cross boundaries separating the journalist from society, journalist from subject, journalist from journalist, journalist from ideas, journalist from sentiments and feelings, and journalist from "inner abundance." Some of the requirements for the development of an imaginative and effective journalistic outlook include (1) an integrity fortified by authentic respect for the audience; (2) a true sense of identity as journalist; (3) collaboration; (4) sympathy, attention, and imagination; and (5) wandering, adventure, and surprise. Much, if not most, journalism is frivolous, and it can be seen as a sort of "fussing." If journalism is regarded as frivolity, then its projection, the readership, the viewership, the audience, will also be frivolous. This is where integrity comes in. Integrity, whether regarded as organizational or individual, separates journalism from the projection of its most convenient and profitable purposes. Virtuous journalism, drawing strength from integrity, relies on idealism based on social necessity and true professional responsibility. Journalists, who stand out not only because of their skill and proficiency but also for their feeling and moral outlook, ought to be at the core of the tradition taught in journalism, rather than being viewed as exceptional or marginal figures. (HOD)
Descriptors: Credibility, Integrity, Journalism, News Media, News Reporting, Press Opinion, Reputation, Social Responsibility, Values
Publication Type: Opinion Papers; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the Association for Education in Journalism (64th, East Lansing, MI, August 8-11, 1981).