When covering disasters, should journalists remain detached?

Discussion in 'General Discussions' started by powerof0, Sep 4, 2010.

  1. powerof0

    powerof0 Level III

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    http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/f ... 965711.stm

    After obtaining medical care for a dying baby in Pakistan in the aftermath of the flood, the author of the article writes:
    When covering disasters, reporters can face the ethical question of whether they should help, or remain detached. When is it right for a journalist to help a weak and possibly dying baby?
     
    #1 powerof0, Sep 4, 2010
  2. itunes

    itunes Level II

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    In a reporter's capacity as a human being, i feel that he/she should definitely help the victims. Despite this, his/her report should still remain objective no matter what.
     
    #2 itunes, Sep 10, 2010
  3. RRRJ

    RRRJ Level I

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    They should be detached or they wouldn't have an objective state of mind.. no one likes reading or hearing something full of bias
     
    #3 RRRJ, Dec 1, 2010
  4. dk8932

    dk8932 Level I

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    I will have to say that the journalists should remain detached from what they are covering. But I'll have to say though if the choice they make is to save someone why not?
     
    #4 dk8932, Dec 2, 2010