The Decision-Making Process in Journalism

This practical guide to journalistic ethics is intended both for journalism students and professionals in print and broadcast media. It presents standards to use in making difficult decisions about gathering, writing, and presenting news stories. The author begins by providing criteria to determine if a sotry is in fact news - including tips on distinguishing news from advertising. The book them puts forth standards of truth, objectivity, and fairness that reporters should follow. The legal definitions of libel and invasion of privacy are given, along with some striking reminders of how the power of the press can profoundly affect people's lives.