AIOU Media Ethics and Laws (6603) Exam Preparation, 2022

                          

                               Mass Communication Semester-II

Important Questions with Answers prepared by Faiza Gul, FRilmi Team (Errors and omissions acceptable) Disclaimer: All Questions and Answers are Based on self assessment and It is only Guess material.

Question no. 1 Explain the developmental perspective of media laws and ethics.     

The developmental perspective of media laws and ethics refers to an approach that recognizes the evolving nature of media and the need for corresponding changes in the regulatory framework and ethical standards. It acknowledges that media laws and ethics should adapt to social, technological, and cultural transformations over time.

The developmental perspective emphasizes several key aspects:

1. Societal Changes: Media laws and ethics should reflect the changing needs and values of society. As societies develop and become more diverse, media regulations should consider the interests and rights of various groups. For example, in a multicultural society like Pakistan, media laws and ethics should address issues of representation, diversity, and inclusivity, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
2. Technological Advancements: With the rapid advancement of technology, media laws and ethics must adapt to new platforms and modes of communication. This includes regulations pertaining to digital media, social networking sites, streaming services, and other emerging technologies. The developmental perspective recognizes the importance of regulating these platforms to protect the public interest, address privacy concerns, combat misinformation, and ensure ethical behavior in the digital sphere.
3. Media Pluralism and Independence: The developmental perspective emphasizes the importance of a diverse and independent media landscape. Media laws and ethics should promote competition, prevent media monopolies, and protect the freedom of expression and press freedom. This perspective acknowledges that media independence is crucial for a healthy democracy, allowing for the dissemination of diverse opinions and holding those in power accountable.
4. Ethical Journalism: The developmental perspective recognizes the need for ethical guidelines for journalists and media professionals. These guidelines should evolve to address contemporary challenges such as fake news, sensationalism, and biased reporting. Ethical standards should encourage accuracy, fairness, transparency, and responsible journalism practices, while also considering the unique ethical dilemmas posed by new media technologies.
5. Public Participation and Accountability: The developmental perspective emphasizes the importance of public participation in the development of media laws and ethical standards. It advocates for inclusive processes that involve stakeholders from civil society, media organizations, academia, and the general public. Additionally, media laws should include mechanisms to hold media organizations accountable for ethical violations, such as establishing regulatory bodies and promoting self-regulation.

In summary, the developmental perspective of media laws and ethics recognizes the need for a flexible and adaptive approach to media regulation. It considers societal changes, technological advancements, and ethical challenges to ensure that media laws and ethical standards remain relevant and effective in the rapidly evolving media landscape.

In the Pakistani context, the developmental perspective of media laws and ethics can be observed in various ways. Here are a few examples:

1. Media Regulatory Authorities: The establishment of regulatory bodies, such as the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the Press Council of Pakistan (PCP), reflects the developmental perspective. These bodies oversee the electronic and print media, respectively, and are responsible for enforcing media regulations, issuing licenses, and addressing complaints. Over time, these regulatory authorities have undergone reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and public participation in the regulatory process.
2. Broadcasting Code of Conduct: The PEMRA has developed a Broadcasting Code of Conduct that outlines ethical standards for electronic media in Pakistan. This code promotes responsible journalism, accuracy, fairness, and prohibits content that incites violence or spreads hatred. The code has been periodically updated to address emerging challenges in media ethics, including issues related to hate speech, fake news, and the representation of marginalized communities.
3. Social Media Guidelines: In response to the growing influence of social media platforms, the Pakistani government has developed guidelines to regulate online content and address concerns related to misinformation, hate speech, and cyberbullying. While some critics argue that these guidelines may impede freedom of expression, they reflect the developmental perspective by recognizing the need to adapt media laws and ethics to the digital realm and protect citizens from potential harm.
4. Media Ownership Regulations: Media ownership regulations play a crucial role in ensuring media pluralism and preventing monopolies. Pakistan has introduced restrictions on cross-media ownership to promote diversity and prevent undue concentration of media power. These regulations aim to encourage a competitive media landscape, which is essential for a healthy democracy and the representation of diverse voices.
5. Access to Information Laws: Pakistan has enacted the Right of Access to Information Act, which promotes transparency and accountability in the public sector. This law allows citizens to request and access information held by public bodies, including government departments and public institutions. It enables journalists and media professionals to gather information and hold public officials accountable, contributing to the developmental perspective of media laws by facilitating informed and responsible reporting.

These examples demonstrate how Pakistan has embraced the developmental perspective by evolving its media laws and ethics to keep pace with societal changes, technological advancements, and emerging challenges. By addressing issues such as media pluralism, digital media regulations, ethical journalism, and public participation, Pakistan aims to foster a media environment that promotes freedom of expression, responsible reporting, and the public interest.

Question no. 2 Elaborate the global journalism ethics.

Global journalism ethics refers to ethical principles and standards that guide journalistic practices on a global scale. It recognizes the interconnectedness of media and communication across borders and seeks to establish common ground for ethical behavior in journalism worldwide. While specific ethical guidelines may vary across countries and cultures, there are overarching principles that are commonly upheld. Here are some examples of global journalism ethics:

1. Accuracy and Truthfulness: Journalists are expected to strive for accuracy in reporting and presenting information. They should verify facts, cross-check sources, and provide context to ensure that their stories are truthful and reliable. This principle emphasizes the importance of avoiding misinformation and misleading content. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, accurate reporting on infection rates, prevention measures, and vaccine efficacy has been crucial in providing the public with reliable information.
2. Independence and Impartiality: Journalists should maintain independence from political, commercial, and other external influences. They are expected to report objectively, presenting multiple perspectives and avoiding bias or favoritism. This principle ensures that journalism remains a watchdog for the public interest and that journalists are not compromised by undue influence. For instance, in coverage of political elections, journalists strive to provide fair and impartial reporting, allowing voters to make informed decisions.
3. Privacy and Sensitivity: Journalists should respect individuals’ privacy rights and exercise sensitivity when reporting on personal matters. They should avoid unnecessary intrusion into private lives and consider the potential harm their reporting may cause. For example, reporting on sensitive topics such as sexual assault or mental health requires careful consideration of privacy concerns and the potential impact on the individuals involved.
4. Diversity and Inclusion: Journalists should strive to represent diverse voices and perspectives in their reporting. They should avoid stereotypes and discriminatory language or portrayals. This principle promotes inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized communities are not misrepresented or excluded from media coverage. For instance, reporting on social issues such as gender equality or minority rights should aim to amplify the voices of those affected and provide balanced coverage.
5. Accountability and Corrections: Journalists are responsible for their work and should be accountable for the accuracy of their reporting. When errors or inaccuracies occur, they should promptly correct them and provide a transparent explanation. This principle fosters trust between journalists and their audiences. An example of this principle in action is when news organizations issue public apologies and corrections for factual errors or misrepresentation of facts.
6. Ethical Use of Sources: Journalists should respect the confidentiality of their sources when necessary and avoid plagiarism or misrepresentation of others’ work. They should attribute information to the appropriate sources and provide proper context. This principle ensures that journalistic integrity is maintained, and sources are protected. For instance, investigative journalism often relies on anonymous sources who may face risks if their identities are revealed.

These examples illustrate the global journalism ethics that underpin responsible and ethical reporting practices worldwide. While specific ethical challenges and considerations may vary in different regions, the principles of accuracy, independence, privacy, diversity, accountability, and ethical sourcing serve as a foundation for journalists to uphold ethical standards in their work on a global scale.

Question no. 3  What is code of ethics? Distinguish between ethics and morality.

A code of ethics is a set of principles or guidelines that outline expected behaviors and standards of conduct within a particular profession or organization. It serves as a framework to guide ethical decision-making and professional behavior. A code of ethics typically encompasses values, principles, and rules that professionals are expected to adhere to in their practice.

Distinguishing between ethics and morality can be nuanced, but here are some general differences:

1. Definition: Ethics refers to a set of principles or guidelines that define what is considered right or wrong within a specific context, such as a profession or society. It focuses on the practical application of moral principles. Morality, on the other hand, is a broader concept that refers to the principles of right and wrong that guide individual behavior and personal beliefs.
2. Scope: Ethics often applies to a specific domain or field, such as medical ethics, business ethics, or journalistic ethics. It provides guidelines and standards for professionals within those domains. Morality, on the other hand, encompasses a wider range of personal beliefs and values that individuals hold, which may extend beyond a specific professional or social context.
3. Context: Ethics is influenced by the norms, values, and expectations of a particular profession, organization, or society. It takes into account the specific context in which ethical decisions are made. Morality, on the other hand, can be influenced by personal beliefs, cultural upbringing, religious teachings, and individual conscience.
4. Flexibility: Ethics can be subject to interpretation and may vary across different contexts or professional organizations. It allows for some flexibility to accommodate specific circumstances while adhering to core principles. Morality, on the other hand, tends to be more personal and subjective, reflecting an individual’s deeply held beliefs and values.
5. External Standards: Ethics often relies on external standards and guidelines established by professional bodies, organizations, or regulatory authorities. These external standards help ensure consistency and accountability within a specific domain. Morality, on the other hand, may be influenced by internal factors, such as personal conscience, empathy, and individual reflection.

In summary, ethics refers to a set of principles and guidelines that guide professional behavior within a specific context, while morality encompasses personal beliefs and principles of right and wrong that guide individual behavior. Ethics often relies on external standards and applies within a defined domain, while morality is a broader concept that encompasses personal beliefs and values that individuals hold.

Here are examples that illustrate the distinction between ethics and morality:

1. Ethics: In the context of journalism, an ethical principle might be to report accurate and unbiased information. A journalist adhering to this principle would ensure that their stories are factually correct, sources are reliable, and diverse perspectives are represented. They would follow professional codes of ethics and guidelines set by their news organization.
2. Morality: An individual’s personal moral belief might be that it is always wrong to lie. Regardless of the specific context, they believe that lying is morally unacceptable. This moral belief may guide their personal behavior and decisions in various situations, such as refusing to lie even in circumstances where it may seem beneficial or when faced with potential negative consequences.

These examples illustrate how ethics encompasses professional or context-specific principles and guidelines, while morality reflects an individual’s personal beliefs and values that guide their behavior in a broader sense. Ethics provides guidelines for professionals within a particular domain, whereas morality influences personal choices and behavior based on individual beliefs about right and wrong.

Question no. 4 Describe different branches of media ethics.                   

Media ethics encompasses various branches that address specific ethical considerations and challenges within the field of media. Here are some different branches of media ethics:

1. Journalistic Ethics: Journalistic ethics focuses on the ethical responsibilities and considerations of journalists and news organizations. It covers principles such as accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and transparency in reporting. Journalistic ethics also includes guidelines for respecting privacy, protecting sources, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring responsible use of social media platforms.
2. Digital Media Ethics: With the rise of digital media platforms and the internet, digital media ethics has emerged as a distinct branch. It addresses ethical issues related to online journalism, social media use, citizen journalism, and the dissemination of information in the digital age. This branch includes considerations such as online privacy, combating fake news, verifying information, maintaining digital security, and addressing the impact of algorithms and filter bubbles on content distribution.
3. Advertising Ethics: Advertising ethics focuses on the ethical considerations within the realm of advertising and marketing. It involves principles such as truthfulness, transparency, avoiding deceptive practices, and ensuring that advertisements do not exploit vulnerable populations. Ethical advertising also includes issues related to product placement, targeting children, and the responsible use of consumer data.
4. Public Relations Ethics: Public relations ethics addresses the ethical responsibilities of public relations practitioners and organizations. It covers principles such as honesty, transparency, maintaining professional integrity, and providing accurate and balanced information to the public. Ethical considerations in public relations also include issues related to conflicts of interest, disclosure of sponsored content, and representing clients or organizations in an ethical manner.
5. Entertainment Media Ethics: Entertainment media ethics focuses on the ethical considerations within the realm of entertainment content, including film, television, music, and other forms of entertainment. It involves principles such as respecting cultural diversity, avoiding harmful stereotypes, and ensuring that entertainment media does not promote violence, discrimination, or unethical behavior. This branch also includes issues related to the protection of intellectual property rights and ethical practices in the production and distribution of entertainment media.
6. Media Ownership and Control Ethics: This branch of media ethics addresses ethical considerations related to media ownership, concentration of media power, and the influence of media conglomerates. It explores issues such as media monopolies, editorial independence, conflicts of interest, and the need for diverse voices and perspectives in media representation. This branch also examines the ethical implications of media ownership and control on democratic processes and public discourse.

These branches of media ethics provide frameworks for professionals and organizations to navigate the ethical challenges specific to their respective areas within the broader field of media. Adhering to these ethical principles promotes responsible and accountable media practices that serve the public interest.

Question no. 5 Discuss the codes of ethics being practiced in Japan, Singapore and Pakistan./ Mention different international codes of ethics for the journalists.

Codes of ethics being practiced in Japan

In Japan, media ethics are guided by codes of ethics developed and followed by various media organizations and professional bodies. These codes provide guidelines and standards to ensure responsible and ethical media practices. Here are a few examples of codes of ethics being practiced in Japan:

1. Japan Newspaper Publishers & Editors Association (NSK) Code of Ethics: The NSK Code of Ethics outlines the principles that newspapers and news agencies in Japan should adhere to. It emphasizes accuracy, fairness, and independence in reporting, along with respecting privacy and human rights. The code also addresses issues such as conflicts of interest, protection of sources, and avoiding plagiarism.
2. Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) Broadcast Program Standards: NHK, the public broadcaster in Japan, follows a set of broadcast program standards that outline ethical guidelines for its programs. These standards emphasize accuracy, impartiality, diversity, and respect for human rights. They also cover topics such as avoiding discrimination, protecting minors, and ensuring responsible use of visuals and sound.
3. Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association (JBA) Guidelines for Broadcasters: The JBA Guidelines for Broadcasters provide ethical guidelines for commercial broadcasters in Japan. The guidelines focus on principles such as fairness, accuracy, and impartiality in news reporting. They also address issues like protecting personal information, avoiding conflicts of interest, and maintaining integrity in advertising practices.
4. Japan Magazine Publishers Association (JMPA) Ethical Guidelines: The JMPA Ethical Guidelines set standards for magazine publishers in Japan. These guidelines cover areas such as accuracy, fairness, and responsible reporting. They also address topics like the distinction between advertisements and editorial content, protecting the privacy of individuals, and avoiding excessive sensationalism.
5. Japan Society for Studies in Journalism and Mass Communication (JSSJMC) Guidelines: The JSSJMC has developed guidelines that encompass a broader range of media practices, including both print and broadcast media. These guidelines emphasize ethical considerations such as accuracy, fairness, independence, and transparency. They also address issues like responsible use of anonymous sources, avoiding conflicts of interest, and promoting media literacy.

These codes of ethics reflect the commitment of media organizations in Japan to maintain high ethical standards and serve the public interest. They provide guidance for journalists, broadcasters, and media professionals in their daily work and help ensure responsible and accountable media practices in the country.

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Discuss the codes of ethics being practiced in Singapore

In Singapore, media ethics are guided by codes of ethics established by various media organizations and professional bodies. These codes provide guidelines and standards to ensure responsible and ethical media practices. Here are some examples of codes of ethics being practiced in Singapore:

1. Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) Code of Conduct: SPH, one of the leading media organizations in Singapore, has a Code of Conduct that outlines the ethical standards for its journalists and employees. The code emphasizes principles such as accuracy, fairness, and integrity in reporting. It also addresses issues like respect for privacy, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring responsible use of social media.
2. Media Literacy Council (MLC) Guidelines: The MLC, a public advisory body in Singapore, has developed guidelines to promote responsible media use and ethical behavior among individuals and organizations. These guidelines cover areas such as online behavior, digital content creation, and responsible sharing of information. They aim to foster media literacy, digital citizenship, and ethical engagement with media platforms.
3. Code of Ethics for the Internet & Mobile Advertising (IAB Singapore): The IAB Singapore has established a Code of Ethics specifically for internet and mobile advertising practices in the country. The code promotes ethical advertising practices, including principles of transparency, honesty, and accuracy in online advertising. It also addresses issues like protecting user privacy, avoiding deceptive practices, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
4. Association of Independent Producers (AIP) Singapore Code of Practice: The AIP Singapore, a professional association for independent producers, has a Code of Practice that sets ethical guidelines for its members. The code emphasizes integrity, professionalism, and adherence to high ethical standards in content creation and production. It covers aspects such as accuracy, fairness, respect for intellectual property rights, and maintaining professional relationships.
5. National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Code of Professional Conduct for Media Professionals: The NTUC, a national labor federation in Singapore, has developed a Code of Professional Conduct specifically for media professionals. The code focuses on principles such as accuracy, fairness, impartiality, and responsible reporting. It also addresses issues such as respect for privacy, maintaining professional integrity, and avoiding conflicts of interest.

These codes of ethics reflect the commitment of media organizations and professional bodies in Singapore to uphold high ethical standards in media practices. They provide guidance for journalists, advertisers, content creators, and other media professionals to ensure responsible, accurate, and ethical engagement with media platforms and audiences in Singapore.

In Pakistan, media ethics are guided by codes of ethics established by various media organizations and professional bodies. These codes provide guidelines and standards to ensure responsible and ethical media practices. Here are some examples of codes of ethics being practiced in Pakistan:

1. Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Code of Conduct: PEMRA, the regulatory authority for electronic media in Pakistan, has a Code of Conduct that outlines the ethical standards for electronic media outlets, including TV channels and radio stations. The code emphasizes principles such as accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and respect for privacy. It also covers topics like responsible reporting, avoiding hate speech, and promoting diversity and cultural sensitivity.
2. All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) Code of Ethics: The APNS, a representative body of major newspaper publishers in Pakistan, has a Code of Ethics for its member publications. The code emphasizes principles such as accuracy, fairness, honesty, and independence in reporting. It also addresses issues such as avoiding conflicts of interest, protecting the rights of journalists, and respecting the dignity and privacy of individuals.
3. Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) Code of Ethics: The CPNE, an association of newspaper editors in Pakistan, has a Code of Ethics that sets ethical guidelines for its members. The code focuses on principles such as accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and responsible reporting. It also covers areas like avoiding plagiarism, respecting intellectual property rights, and providing a platform for diverse voices and opinions.
4. Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) Code of Conduct: The PFUJ, a union representing journalists in Pakistan, has a Code of Conduct that sets ethical standards for its members. The code emphasizes principles such as accuracy, fairness, impartiality, and responsible reporting. It also addresses issues such as protecting journalists’ rights, ensuring safety and security, and promoting media freedom and independence.
5. Pakistan Advertising Association (PAA) Code of Ethics: The PAA has a Code of Ethics that applies to advertising practices in Pakistan. The code promotes ethical advertising practices, including principles of honesty, fairness, accuracy, and responsible marketing. It also addresses issues such as avoiding false or misleading advertisements, respecting consumer privacy, and adhering to relevant laws and regulations.

These codes of ethics reflect the commitment of media organizations, regulatory authorities, and professional bodies in Pakistan to uphold high ethical standards in media practices. They provide guidance for journalists, editors, publishers, advertisers, and other media professionals to ensure responsible, accurate, and ethical engagement with media platforms and audiences in Pakistan.