Should bloggers be held to the same code of ethics as professional journalists?

by Jan Lazor

Created on: July 24, 2009   Last Updated: July 25, 2009

Few absolutes exist in the world today with the exception of absolute zero, Absolut Vodka and absolutely bloggers should be held to the same standards as professional journalists. If you want to play a journalist online, then you need to follow the same rules.

With the proliferation of online writing sites such as Associated Content, Demand Studios, Helium, Suite 101, etc., the Internet makes it possible for freelance writers to receive recognition and money for their work. But is also makes it possible for inaccurate information to find a permanent home on the Internet.

Errors in a newspaper story have a short shelf life. Less than 24 hours after a mistake appears in print, the newspaper can deliver a correction into the hands of its readers. It isn't so easy to correct an error in the age of electronic wizardry. Once it reaches the internet, it can make its way around the world in seconds.

A reporter must have no less than two sources of information for each article that appears in print. This principle is a must for online writers, since much of their fact finding involves online sources instead of personal interviews. Before accepting a fact as accurate, try to find the same nugget of information from two separate websites. Freelancers need to take the time for thorough research before posting their product on line.

Freelancers strive to circulate as many articles as possible to increase income, but don't sacrifice quality for quantity.

Writers at Helium, Associated Content, etc, are independent contractors for the host site. Every writer needs to understand they can be held personally responsible if someone challenges their work or accuses them of plagiarism. There will be no newspaper organization supporting them if a court challenge arises. You will stand on your own in front of your accuser and the judge.

Recently both the New York Times and the Boston Globe were named in their own headlines when staff writers admitted falsifying sources in their news reporting. In both cases, the journalists involved had been in the business for years. You don't make it to the staff of either of these prestigious news giants without years of experience. Both reporters knew better, but fell victim to the pressures of getting the news on the page first and fast.

A lesson can be learned for all writers and editors in the publishing business, whether it is print, broadcast, or online journalism. Fast and first may not always be accurate. Yes, the reporters in both instances failed their readers, but the smear on the faces of their editors should not go unnoticed. Editors are the policemen for journalism. They not only police grammar and spelling usage, but facts as well.

It is the responsibility of all writers, whether amateur or professional, to understand the ethics behind the writing business and stick to them with the tenacity of a bulldog.

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