Ethical Journalism

Commandment 23
Relationship to source

My publication would not have such a narrow restriction on source relations. If my writer tees up at 10 am every other Sunday with the head of the police department that is ok. "It is essential that we preserve a professional detachment, free of any whiff of bias." Story selection is itself bias -- not an issue of public interest. In order to write a good story I feel it is often necessary to informally know your source/subject. All the writer has to do is say, 'while smoking a backwoods cigar on the rough of the 7th hole.... so and so said.' Don't underestimate the freedom of transparency.

Accepting Hospitality from Sources

I have a big problem with the whole gift receiving issue. The fact that some organization is willing to wine and dine a reporter is a story in itself. I don't believe in objectivity so free drinks and a meal will not be the unconscious motives fueling a 'bias'. My writers can take up any freebies offered as long as they report it to me and if it is questionable it will be printed with the article.... I believe I remember The Times saying that the real employers are the readers...

Sample Letters

The declining a gift/unsolicited award letters are pretty funny -- the air of insincerity reflects more poorly on The Times than accepting a gift or award. I would require my writers to send an acceptance thank you letter. I don't condone taking a gift without saying thank you.