Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Journalistic Codes Of Ethics: A Proposed Standard For Juries In Libel Trials, Michael H. Eldridge

All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023

The standard of judgment for determining fault in tort law as applied to libel is ambiguous. Juries are allowed to rule against media defendants by using a standard that does not consider professional journalistic practice. I argue that the determination of professional fault is beyond the understanding of a lay jury due to the unique professional practice of journalists. Juries find it far easier to empathize with private party plaintiffs than with media defendants. I abstract criteria from standards of conduct for the journalism profession and determine what the reasonable journalist might do in general practice. In conclusion, I offer …