FOR IELTS - SAMPLE TEST 2 - READING 2

 MEDIA ETHIC

Section A 

The media often comes under fire for its unethical behaviour. This has become a global issue especially since the car chase involving Princess Diana and the paparazzi through the streets of Paris, which resulted in her untimely death. The question then arises—does anything go for the sake of 'free' press? Doctors, lawyers and accountants all need to follow a code of ethics and need a license in order to practise, so why should it be any different for those working at a newspaper or TV station? Although there is no regulatory body to enforce a code of ethics for journalists, there are certain points that media personnel should take to account when assessing whether or not they are behaving ethically. 

Section B 

When reporting the news, the media are required to seek the truth. It is expected that subjects will be given the chance to respond to allegations of wrongdoing. In addition, subjects should be notified in advance if their image and/or voice is to be recorded. Although some laws allow subjects to be videotaped without their prior knowledge, this practice is clearly deceptive. Besides, it is the job of the media to identify sources whenever possible as well as test them for accuracy.

Section C 

In the hunt for news, it is the reporter's duty to be upfront and above suspicion. Whenever possible, journalists have the obligation to disclose their identity. In search of a story, some reporters have dressed up and posed as police officers, lawyers or other officials in order to gain information; however, this is not appropriate behaviour. Exceptions include journalists who seek to enter a country which denies entry of the news media, or a movie/restaurant reporter who makes a reservation at a venue which does not permit critics. The former could state that they are visiting for business or travel purposes while the latter could make a reservation under an anonymous name. Obviously, any illegal acts, such as breaking into buildings, phone tapping and computer hacking, are not permissible under any circumstances. 

Section D 

Reporting the news calls for the media to be honest and fair on all accounts. All too often headlines, video, photos, etc. are oversimplified, distorted or shown out of context. This is sensationalist reporting, which should be considered unacceptable behaviour for honourable media organisations. Also, the imposing of cultural and political points-of-view on the air could cause an organisation to be seen as politically biased. For example, the advocating or endorsement of a politica! candidate, especially by a political correspondent, would be grossly unjustifiable behavior. Finally, due to the severity of possible repercussions, the press is well-advised to steer clear of stereotyping subjects according to race, religion, sex, age, appearance, sexual orientation or social status. 

Section E 

At times, news correspondents must summon their courage to help give a voice to the voiceless and hold the powerful accountable for their actions. Stories should be reported by the media in their entirety and diverse views expressed openly, even if it is unpopular to do so. 

Section F 

All human beings deserve respect. Therefore, it is vital for the media to try to minimise the harm done to any parties involved in a controversial story. Any stories that may have adverse effects on the subjects should be run with compassion. Extra sensitivity should be given to children, inexperienced subjects as well as those experiencing tragedy or grief. There is nothing worse than seeing a live broadcast of grief-stricken victims, especially if the incident claimed the lives of victims' loved ones. When reporting on criminal activity, the naming of criminal suspects should be avoided until formal charges have been laid. The suspect's right to a fair trial should be balanced with the public's right to be informed. Moreover, journalists are obliged to show good taste by avoiding arrogance and pandering to lurid curiosity. 

Section G 

Operating independently of the bias of private interest is of utmost importance to reporters, journalists and the like. Special treatment or kickbacks offered by parties with vested interests should not be accepted, as it compromises journalistic integrity. Journalists must insist on having their company pay for any expenses they may incur while on the job, including lunch/dinner bills (which a source such as an executive may offer to take care of). Reporters covering travel, sports, arts, technology, fashion, dining or automobiles are particularly susceptible to favourable treatment and ought to be particularly careful not to accept any discount offers or specials.

Section H 

Personal and romantic relationships with sources are to be avoided in the interest of professionalism. Playing a regular game of golf with a local politician could be considered a tactic used to further business interests, but outside parties might get the impression that the relationship between the reporter and the politician is too close for comfort. Also, coverage of reporters' (or media personnel's) family members can be problematic. For instance, a business/finance editor who has a high flying business executive on Wall Street as a brother would find it in his best interests not to write about his brother, due to a possible conflict of interest. 

Section I 

The public should be seen as the media's employers; unfortunately, they are unable to hire and fire those in the industry. Therefore, it is up to the media to be accountable to their audience. Any mistakes, aired or printed, need to be admitted and corrected promptly. And any unethical behaviour by a media organisation's employees or competitors should also be exposed. Readers/ viewers should be encouraged to express their views and grievances on what they believe have been breaches of ethical conduct by members of the media community.