Minimize Harm: the SPJ Code of Ethics

The second pillar of the SPJ Code of Ethics says we should minimize harm by treating sources, subjects and colleagues as human beings deserving of respect. But how?

And, who’s to be the judge of whether we have reached a fair balance between minimizing harm and the first principle of that same Code of Ethics: seeking truth and reporting it?

This program lets newspaper readers — through the complaints they raised — be the judge of how well local newspapers did in minimizing harm in specific cases. A panel of newspaper executives will discuss actual cases where readers have complained that they have been harmed unnecessarily by news coverage.

Leaders of a daily newspaper, a chain of suburban weeklies and a business weekly have agreed to participate in this panel discussion, which will be moderated by a member of the National SPJ board.

• What: News executives discuss dilemmas they faced when considering coverage that might cause harm
• When: Thursday, April 19, 2007; 6 p.m. social period; 6:30 p.m. dinner and program
• Where: Radisson Worthington Hotel, 7007 North High St. (southwest corner of Wilson Bridge Road and High St.)
• Cost: $25 $12.50 per person

Download the registration form or order online using PayPal or a credit card.