The Stumbles That Led to an Ethics Blunder

The Washington Post's ill-fated plan to sell sponsorships of off-the-record "salons" was an ethical lapse of monumental proportions.

Publisher Katharine Weymouth and Executive Editor Marcus Brauchli have now taken full responsibility for what was envisioned as a series of 11 intimate dinners to discuss public policy issues. For a fee of up to $25,000, underwriters were guaranteed a seat at the table with lawmakers, administration officials, think ... Full Story »

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Review

Michael Bugeja
4.7
by Michael Bugeja - Jul. 13, 2009

Every NewsTrust.net reviewer should take a break from politics and read or review this exceptional analysis of an ethical breach at The Washington Post.

I know and have worked with Andy Alexander who served on our Advisory Council at Ohio University's Journaism School when I taught there. His insights also are included in my ethics book because he remains one of the fairest, most responsible journalists on the scene.

Historically at quality newspapers such as The Post, a firewall exists between the business and news departments to ensure editorial integrity and independence. The Post has internal “Standards and Ethics” guidelines that stress the importance of newsroom neutrality.

Marketing sees newsroom neutrality as an impediment to targeting clients.

Disclosure: Michael is involved in this story as a friend (review not included in overall rating). Help

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