Comments on: The Media and Ends/Rules Based Actions

By: b2bombers

b2bombers — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 22:03:32 +0000

We see the point of your argument, and agree that it is important for the American public to be honestly informed about international events, as well as government actions, in order to make informed judgments. However, we would argue that the media often doeas not act using only using rule-based ethics. We must remember that the media is, in fact, a business, and thus often acts in its own self-interest, regardless of the ideology of its members. These self-interests include increasing viewership, revenue, notoriety, and prestige. Also, many forms of media are impacted by particular political opinions, and sometimes, purposefully or unconsiously, seek to influence the opinions of their viewers. This is exemplified by various pundit shows, analysis programs, etc that often replace straight, objective repoting. Based on these examples, we would argue that the ethics of the media during wartimes are influenced by considerations more complicated than simply the decision between thorough and selective reporting to the public.

By: AJP

AJP — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 18:35:26 +0000

I agree with several of your points regarding the media coverage of war. However, what is unclear is how the media covers human rights violations and immoral actions taken by governments overseas. The media focuses on highlighting the loss of American lives in war, but it’s not too often that I see consistent coverage regarding violations of morality regarding Darfur and other regions engulfed in turmoil. Recently however, the media has devoted significant airtime to the situation in Tibet as it relates to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. I see the media trying to expose the Chinese government as oppressive, which would create enough backlash to remedy the poor treatment of Tibet. The media is clearly acting from a rules-based perspective in this particular situation.

By: bmw9426

bmw9426 — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 04:24:52 +0000

So considering the type of thinking used during the Vietnam War, what is your perspective on the War in Iraq currently. Obviously we are seeing some gruesome pictures and reports of what is happening, however there are still parts of information that are being withheld from the media due. Theoretically speaking the media is reporting everything they can in Iraq, but the reality is that in time of war restriction are made upon reporting due to the sensitivity of information. Application of the rule-based theory is more appropriate approach to media coverage, and currently in use by the American Media ( depending what cable network your watching)