La Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication de la Arizona State University y la Stanton Foundation They have published an extensive guide that analyzes the problems that the media are facing in terms of lack of trust and offers several tips to produce content that people can trust.
According to professors Leonard Downie Jr. and Andrew Heyward, the traditional concept of journalistic “objectivity” is outdated because “misinformation, exacerbated by social media, has distorted the public’s perception of reality.”
The authors of the report consider that the belief in the value of fair information will not be restored by appealing to objectivity, but by strengthening other criteria. “That requires a new vision of how to achieve it: a vision that replaces old-fashioned “objectivity” with a more relevant articulation of journalistic standards.
These are the six lines that the study proposes to replace objectivity and produce content that can be trusted, respecting the classic values of journalism:
1Journalists with editorial independence so as not to bear pressure and be able to publish true information
“Journalism, rather than being objective, must be ‘honest, credible, trustworthy,'” the authors state, adding that journalism cannot thrive without editorial independence. “Journalists must have the freedom to cover news without heeding, fearing, or tolerating pressure from corporate management, advertisers, donors, interest groups, politicians, or government officials. Accuracy begins with a commitment to publish verifiable facts. But the facts, while true, are not necessarily the whole truth. Therefore, journalists must consider multiple perspectives so that the result reflects the most honest picture of reality that can be presented. What Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein call “the best available version of the truth,” they emphasize.
2More diverse and inclusive newsrooms
A truly diverse newsroom is much more likely to create trustworthy news, according to the authors. “That starts with a commitment to hire and retain staff that reflect the diversity of the community. – not just ethnic and gender diversity, but people with different economic, educational, religious, geographic, and social backgrounds.
3Have a clear and consistent policy to guide journalists in their interactions with political networks or activities
What is the correct relationship between an open and inclusive newsroom culture and freedom? the report asks. “Do journalists have to express their opinions on social networks or participate in political events, such as demonstrations or protests? “Our point of view – indicate the authors of the report – is that allowing journalists to express opinions on controversial issues such as social and political issues erodes the perception of fairness and open-mindedness of reliability. We do not buy the argument that some put forward that personal social networks should be left out of the policies of the media. The journalist is a representative of the media regardless of the platform or location and waives some personal rights.”
4Focus on original and investigative journalism that helps people
According to the authors, in order to regain the confidence of the readers, overcoming the vision of that objectivity that they consider outmoded, journalists should focus on publishing original information that helps make better decisions. “Try to add value with every story you tell. The reports should focus on all aspects of life, not just politics, but beyond. The newsroom agenda must be driven not only by the pursuit of journalistic glory but by a deep understanding of the diverse priorities and needs of communities.”
5Show work processes
It is no coincidence -the authors indicate- that “transparency” has become a slogan, if not a cliché when talking about ways to increase confidence in the news. «Disclosing the way in which the information has been collected and the processes involved in the construction of the news can be something unnatural, but it becomes an effective way to build a stronger connection with skeptical consumers»they maintain.
6Define core values of newsroom and act on them
According to the report, it may seem difficult to reconcile the notion of newsroom having “core values” with a lack of bias, but it is not. “What it is about – they explain – is to act in accordance with those values, for example, allocating more resources to related issues. If a newsroom considers that one of the values is the fight against climate change, or the defense of diversity and inclusion, this translates into the relevance it is given”.
According to the report, “To the extent that your editorial values and priorities influence story selection, weight, placement, focus of issues, and even tone, Recognizing this can create a more authentic connection between your journalists and the public. One value that we believe is worth declaring out loud is support for democratic institutions, which are under attack on multiple fronts. Reliable news is essential to maintaining a healthy democracy.”
