Inés Vaca de Osma Serrano

WS4: Q&A for the new journalists

1. As an individual, my freedom of speech is fully recognized. Can I express my opinion in the

newspaper?

Although individuals enjoy the right to freedom of speech, it’s important to understand that
newspapers’ principal purpose is to provide objective information based on facts. Additionally,
newspapers often adhere to an editorial line, constraining the extent of individual freedom of speech
within those boundaries. However, there are certain allowances; journalists who have columns, for
instance, can express their opinions within those specific pieces. Thus, freedom of speech when
writing in a newspaper is limited.

2. The Daily Mail has its own editorial line. Why is it so important for its audience?

Every media outlet has its own editorial line based on its ideologies, beliefs, and values. The
significance of The Daily Mail’s own editorial line lies in its ability to offer a clear perspective to its
readers. This is important for its audience because it gives them a clear idea of what to expect when
they read its content. By maintaining a consistent editorial line, The Daily Mail provides its audience
with a predictable and reliable source of information. This predictability is particularly important in a
media landscape where individuals often gravitate towards content that aligns with their comfort
zones. Therefore, those who identify with The Daily Mail’s editorial line are likely to form a loyal
audience.

3. What happens if I don’t share this editorial line?

While you may personally disagree with the editorial line, as a journalist, your primary responsibility
is to convey information based on facts rather than personal opinions. It’s essential to maintain
professionalism and not oppose the established editorial line. However, if you encounter a situation
where you’re assigned to write about a topic that strongly contradicts your values, you may
communicate with your superiors, expressing politely your concerns and proposing an alternative
topic.

4. Having an editorial line means that I cannot be objective and professional?

Adhering to an editorial line in journalism should not compromise objectivity or professionalism. The
editorial line establishes the overall tone and perspective of a media organization but does not absolve
journalists of their responsibility to present information truthfully and impartially. Striking a balance
between respecting the editorial line and upholding journalistic principles is essential to contribute to
the credibility of the organization and build trust with the audience.
 5. Why do I have to give any kind of information, even if it doesn’t benefit our editorial line
positions?

Journalists’ primary goal is to inform objectively, ensuring that the editorial line doesn’t overshadow
the accurate representation of facts, which could otherwise harm the media’s reputation.
Transparency in presenting diverse information contributes to building a positive brand image and
credibility. By showing a commitment to impartial reporting, a media outlet establishes trust with its
audience, reinforcing its reliability as a source of information.

6. Should I never take sides?

Journalists shouldn’t align themselves with specific sides. The responsibility of the media is to inform
rather than sway public opinion. It is crucial that journalists maintain an objective stance, allowing
audiences to form their own opinions based on the facts presented. This approach reinforces the
notion that the media serves as a reliable source of information, encouraging critical thinking and
independent judgment among the audience.

7. We respect the privacy of any person. In which situations can we apply an exception to this
rule?

Even though maintaining people’s privacy is a fundamental principle in journalistic ethics, there are
specific situations where exceptions to this rule may be warranted. For example, when public safety
is at risk, such as in cases involving individuals who have committed serious crimes. In instances where
law enforcement is actively searching for a suspect, the media may set aside the privacy principle to
publish pertinent information, such as an image of the murderer, to aid in ensuring public safety.
Another exception arises when the material is deemed of significant public interest. In these cases,
the media may weigh the importance of the information against privacy considerations, choosing to
disclose details that are crucial for the public’s understanding and awareness.

8. How do I work when I know there’s a fact, but I cannot get to all the truth?

When a journalist is aware of a fact but lacks the complete truth, he should share the information that
he has obtained after verifying that it is accurate. However, he must also be transparent and
acknowledge that the information is incomplete.

9. Should I give a piece of news even if it is violent and disturbing?

The decision to present a piece of news, even if it involves violence or disturbing content, relies on the
significance of the information in shedding light on a crucial issue or event. If the news is vital for the
audience’s comprehension of an important matter, it may be deemed justified to share it. However,
this judgement must be tempered by an awareness of the potential psychological impact that such
news might have on the audience. Moreover, careful consideration should be given to the dignity of
those affected by the events.

10. Should I give a piece of news even if I know it is not important but interesting?

Sure. News pieces should not only focus on highly significant events. In fact, due to the inundation of
complex and overwhelming information, there exists a human inclination to engage with content that
isn’t necessarily of major importance but intriguing. Although it is fundamental to inform about
conflicts, such as the one between Israel and Palestine, journalists also have the flexibility to explore
“lighter” topics. For instance, reporting on the concerts scheduled in Madrid throughout November
may not be crucial, but it can captivate a portion of the audience seeking diverse and less weighty
information.