Ethics & Plagiarism

Much like I explained in my discussion response this week, I feel there are two types of reporters in the world - those who are dedicated to the craft that stop at no end and others who are just as dedicated but more moralistic in judgment. Because of this, the pressure of always having a great story is put on reporters. Many individuals who have been caught plagiarizing use this excuse themselves. Is this why plagiarism happens more often now? Or is it just caught more often because there is a light on the issue? Are people less ethical much like Pavlik's “Journalism In The Digital Age” mentioned?

We live in a cruel world, we all know this. The world is ever changing, and it is expected that everything else follows suit. The face of journalism continues to change due to the rise of technology and its influence on the industry. But what is driving more journalists to infringe on the words of their follow reporters and use them as if they were their own. Passing work off that is not yours is dishonest, deceitful, unprofessional and morally and ethically wrong.

What should be done about this? As a journalist, I feel strict penalties should occur to journalists that engage in this behavior. Firstly, I don't feel they should write for any magazine, website, newspaper, etc. after being caught. I realize the media coverage of their scandal most often leads to book offers, etc. But by drawing this light on these individuals, I feel deeply furthers the imagery of acceptance within our industry. Why do we give press time to liars? They are the ones who make hardworking individuals that dig for truth and answers look bad. Reporters are among some of the most untrusted individuals in America. Why? Because they lie, because they use other people's words. This trend will only continue if something drastic doesn't occur.

With the implementation of my program that tracks clips and feeds of journalists, those infringing on one's intellectual property rights will be punished. But my program cannot stop the act from happening, the industry and their role in placing coverage on the issue, is ultimately what will make a difference. Journalism Ethic classes all over preach out plagiarism and the issues and penalties behind it, however it is within one's morals and ethics that will determine their fate with the issue. Let's hope that honest, true reporters come up from the ranks to take over for the old-school retirees of today's times.