Many of my friends could attest to the fact that I am not a fan of cursing. I often say, "Watch your mouth!" Although this may get annoying for some, most of my friends respect my request.
In an article written by Aly Colon from Poynter Online regarding the hype around Isaiah Washington (who plays Dr. Preston Burke on Grey's Anatomy) using the word "faggot" off-camera, the ethics of when and when not to print foul language are discussed. Colon writes,
The decision about whether to use an offensive word depends on three elements: your journalistic purpose, your audience and the clarity (or lack of it) that comes from using the word (or not using it).
In her descriptions of these elements, Colon's standards focus on the ethical system of utility. The decision of whether or not to print foul language comes down to the greatest benefit of the media audience. I agree with using this standard, as mass media is intended to keep the public informed. Although the ethics of reporting celebrity "news" will likely be questioned for eternity, stories dealing with rights of minority group individuals deserve to published to comply with the system of utility.
1 comment:
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