On the Ohio University campus, we as aspiring journalists must learn to focus on public enlightenment, seek justice and protect democracy. Reporting on an issue or an event is only a part of our responsibility as reporters, editors, photographers, and news directors. It is our duty to report the truth and supply the audience with unbiased information. Professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist's credibility. In order to prove ourselves as legitimate journalists, we must remain active in the pursuit of truth in the most responsible manner.
Many situations arise in the newsroom and out on the beat that test our ethics and our reason.
The following is a guideline to assist Ohio University's journalists as they endeavor to uphold these standards. Avoid conflicts of interest either real or perceived. Refuse gifts, favors, commissions, privileges, or special access that could affect objectivity or the perception of objectivity. Do not engage in favorable treatment of sources. Disclose any unethical practices of other journalists.