I'm Independent

     What does it mean to be independent? Why is this such an important value? I feel that this is one of the most important and fundamental principles which we as journalists can develop. The fourth principle of journalism states that “Journalists must maintain an independence from those they cover.” I liked this quote which explains the importance of independence: “Independence is the essence of our reputation as a “stateless” global news organization and fundamental to the trust that allows us to report impartially from all sides of a conflict or dispute.” http://handbook.reuters.com/index.php/Independence

      I found it interesting that this independence is applicable on several levels. One of the important things which we must be independent from is factions. If we are to truly give an unbiased and fair article or story we must be free from any form of faction which could hinder us. William Safire is an excellent example of being able to be independent from faction despite your background. His background as a speechwriter for President Nixon put him completely on the biased side when he was in politics. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/28/us/28safire.html However, once a journalist he developed and showed his independence from the Nixon administration and in doing so, showed us a excellent example of the importance of becoming independent in journalism.

      It is therefore just as important for us to be independent. As we strive to gain independence from those we cover we will be able to write better, more effective stories. Independence will enable us to give a well-rounded story that will do justice to those that it is about and to those who read it. I like the quote “the press creates a common language understood by everyone in the community.” It creates this common language in the community and we therefore have a duty to each and every person in that community. It was taught in the presentation that “The public feel a class divide between those who produce the news and those who receive it.” As we strive for independence in all aspects, whether social or otherwise, we will break down this division and further establish this commonality that will unite and “bind society together, making them among the most vital forces in the maintenance of any society and fundamental to democratic government and a free society.” http://journalism.cmich.edu/forStudents/programs/