Do You Know About Media Ethics And Law?

1.

The following is an example of slander

A.

A national magazine reports on the upcoming election with an intent to sway voters to the Democratic side.
B.

A local radio DJ tries to sell his own car during air time.
C.

Several students are interviewed by a local news station and state that their science teacher is a raging alcoholic and fails to do his job.
D.

The high school principal takes the day off without calling in sick.

Correct Answer
C. Several students are interviewed by a local news station and state that their science teacher is a raging alcoholic and fails to do his job.

Explanation
Slander refers to making false spoken statements about someone that harm their reputation. In this case, the students are being interviewed by a news station and making false claims about their science teacher being an alcoholic and failing to do his job. This false statement can harm the teacher's reputation and is therefore an example of slander.

Rate this question:

5

2.

Which of the following does not contribute to the credibility of the press?

A.

Believability
B.

Sensationalism
C.

Impartiality
D.

Accuracy

Correct Answer
B. Sensationalism

Explanation
Sensationalism does not contribute to the credibility of the press because it focuses on exaggerating and sensationalizing stories to attract attention and increase readership or viewership. This often involves prioritizing entertainment value over factual accuracy, which undermines the trustworthiness of the press. Credibility is built on believability, impartiality, and accuracy, as these qualities ensure that the information provided by the press is trustworthy and reliable.

Rate this question:

4

3.

Errors in published media should be corrected quickly and without drawing attention to the mistake.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
Errors in published media should be corrected quickly and without drawing attention to the mistake because it is important to maintain the credibility and professionalism of the media outlet. Drawing attention to the mistake can lead to embarrassment and loss of trust from the audience. By correcting the error promptly and discreetly, the media outlet shows its commitment to accuracy and quality journalism.

Rate this question:

2

4.

This is the practice of passing off another's work as your own.

A.

Slander
B.

Invasion of privacy
C.

Libel
D.

Plagiarism

Correct Answer
D. Plagiarism

Explanation
Plagiarism refers to the act of presenting someone else's work or ideas as one's own without giving proper credit or acknowledgement. It involves copying or paraphrasing someone else's work and passing it off as original. This can include written work, ideas, images, or any other form of creative expression. Plagiarism is considered unethical and is a serious academic and professional offense, as it undermines the integrity of intellectual property and the value of originality.

Rate this question:

2

5.

The opportunity for permitting a person criticized in a story to respond to that criticism in the same story is known as:

A.

Privileged statements
B.

Right of reply
C.

Objectivity
D.

Libel

Correct Answer
B. Right of reply

Explanation
The right of reply refers to the opportunity given to a person who has been criticized in a story to respond to that criticism within the same story. This allows for a fair and balanced representation of different perspectives and ensures that individuals have a chance to defend themselves or provide their side of the story. It promotes transparency and objectivity in journalism by allowing all parties involved to have their say.

Rate this question:

2

6.

The courts have made it clear that no publication will be held responsible for libel if the story in question in ____________________. (true/false)

Correct Answer
true

Explanation
The statement suggests that the courts have established a clear rule stating that if a story in question is true, no publication will be held responsible for libel. This means that if the information presented in the story is accurate and can be proven to be true, then the publication cannot be held legally accountable for any defamation or libel claims.

Rate this question:

3

7.

What are the four forms of media?

A.

Newspapers
B.

Radio and television
C.

Internet
D.

Magazines

Correct Answer
A. Newspapers

Explanation
The four forms of media mentioned in the answer are newspapers, radio and television, internet, and magazines. These are considered forms of media because they are channels through which information and entertainment are communicated to a wide audience. Newspapers have been a traditional form of media, providing printed news and articles. Radio and television are broadcast media, delivering audio and visual content to listeners and viewers. The internet is a digital platform that allows for the dissemination of various media types, including text, audio, video, and images. Magazines are print publications that cover a wide range of topics and interests.

Rate this question:

2

8.

Which topic is not covered in journalists’ ethical codes?

A.

Respecting people’s privacy
B.

Subterfuge
C.

The law of defamation
D.

None

Correct Answer
C. The law of defamation

Explanation
The topic of "the law of defamation" is not covered in journalists' ethical codes. Journalists' ethical codes typically focus on principles such as accuracy, fairness, impartiality, and respecting people's privacy. Defamation laws, on the other hand, are legal regulations that govern the communication of false statements that harm someone's reputation. While journalists should strive to avoid defamation, it is not explicitly covered in their ethical codes as it falls under legal jurisdiction rather than ethical guidelines.

Rate this question:

2

9.

When should a journalist use secret or hidden recording equipment?

A.

When the interviewee has said they don’t want to be recorded
B.

When gathering facts for a particularly news-worthy story
C.

When there is no other way to get a public interest story
D.

When there are multiple ways to get a public interest story

Correct Answer
C. When there is no other way to get a public interest story

Explanation
Using secret or hidden recording equipment should only be considered when there is no other way to obtain a public interest story. This implies that all other avenues for gathering information have been exhausted, and the journalist believes that the story is of significant importance to the public. In such cases, the use of secret recording equipment may be justified as a last resort to ensure that the story is accurately reported and can contribute to the public's understanding and knowledge.

Rate this question:

1

10.

What is UK privacy law based on?

A.

The Editors’ Code of Practice
B.

The rights of celebrities to have private lives
C.

Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights
D.

Article 7 of the European Convention on Human Rights

Correct Answer
C. Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights

Explanation
UK privacy law is based on Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This article protects the right to respect for private and family life, home, and correspondence. It is the foundation for privacy laws in the UK and ensures that individuals have the right to privacy and protection of their personal information.

Rate this question:

1