Key facts
- The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) is updating its code of ethics for the first time in 12 years.
- The update addresses challenges posed by artificial intelligence, the rise of independent 'creator journalists,' and declining public trust in the media.
- The revised draft emphasizes that technology does not excuse inaccuracy or unfairness, and journalists remain responsible for their work.
- A key change replaces the phrase 'Give voice to the voiceless' with 'Be vigilant and courageous about holding those with power accountable. Counter the unfair marginalization of those with less power.'
- The SPJ's four core principles remain: 'Seek Truth and Report It,' 'Minimize Harm,' 'Act Independently,' and 'Be Accountable and Transparent.'
The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) is undertaking a significant revision of its century-old Code of Ethics, a voluntary guide for journalists. This marks the sixth revision in the code's history and the first in 12 years, reflecting the dramatic shifts in the media landscape.
Key drivers for the update include the rapid emergence and potential misuse of artificial intelligence in newsrooms, the increasing prevalence of independent 'creator journalists' alongside traditional reporters, and a concerning decline in public trust in the media. The SPJ aims to ensure that ethical standards remain relevant and robust in the face of these challenges.
Dan Axelrod, chairman of the SPJ Ethics Committee, emphasized the code's importance in protecting democracy, stating, 'This is the way to protect democracy. This is to protect society.' The revision process involved extensive meetings and debate among ethics experts, culminating in a draft that is slightly longer than the current code.
One of the most notable changes involves the wording around accountability and marginalization. The phrase 'Give voice to the voiceless,' which was seen as potentially problematic, has been replaced with 'Be vigilant and courageous about holding those with power accountable. Counter the unfair marginalization of those with less power.' This shift aims to acknowledge that marginalized groups may have voices, but mainstream outlets may not be paying attention.
The revised code includes a new line addressing technology: 'Remember that speed, technology or medium do not excuse inaccuracy or unfairness. Journalists are ethically responsible for their work, regardless of tools and technologies used.' This emphasizes that journalists are accountable for their output, irrespective of the tools employed, including AI.
Despite the evolving definition of 'journalist' and the changing industry, SPJ President Chris Vaccaro expressed confidence that the code will continue to be a valuable guide. He noted that the code is studied in ethics classes and can serve as a benchmark for journalistic practices globally, particularly in regions with less established free press traditions. The draft code will be put to a vote by the broader SPJ organization in October.