Objective Journalism

Those who are open to personal values influencing journalistic practice have criticized the issue of objective reporting by journalists. This is because of the present unbalance between journalists’ freedom and responsibility; their role as representatives of the Fourth Estate and their freedom and need to communicate and uphold ideas and values (Hirst & Patching 2005). There are many criteria for ‘good’ journalism and objectivity and has long been considered a vital factor, however is it fair to assume that journalistic practices change with the political and social movements of the world. This paper addresses the issue of personal and moral beliefs in journalism and whether it is acceptable or indeed required in today’s society, or whether it remains a hindrance to good journalism and the role of the Fourth Estate.

The Fourth Estate refers to the media’s role as an intermediary and watchdog whose purpose is to inform and serve the best interests of the public. It is documented by Carlyle that Edmund Burke coined the phrase, placing the media with the other three estates, parliaments, courts and government (formerly the church), he also emphasized its importance and influence. “Burke said there were three estates in parliament; but in the reporters gallery yonder there sat the Fourth Estate, more important than they all…Whoever can speak, speaking now to the whole nation, becomes a power, a branch of government, with inalienable weight in law-making, in all acts of authority.” (Carlyle 1968)

Carlyle’s quote demonstrates why journalists are professional representatives of the fourth estate, journalists hold power as providers of information to the public and are essentially responsible or forming and shaping their moral values and opinions. It is for this reason that objectivity in journalism as long been a requirement, because it was thought only by providing unbiased and fair information can the public make an accurate judgment. This thinking is being... [continues]

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