Reflections on Media Ethics

Annette Danto's short, interview-based documentary—geared towards educators and students, but likely to interest anyone involved in media studies—interviews six individuals about their approach to ethics in a world with a 24-hour news cycle and nonstop reality programming. Journalist Jon Alpert starts by discussing moments that may be too personal for directors to capture, citing an HBO project involving Arlington Cemetery, in which he thought it would be best to let mourners have some time alone. Ultimately, Alpert obtained the footage he needed, but chose to be selective in what he filmed. Veteran documentarian George Stoney believes that filmmakers should make their intentions clear to their subjects so that no one ends up feeling exploited or misled. Stoney feels particular disdain for those who lie to participants in order to elicit specific responses. Direct cinema pioneer Albert Maysles talks about trying to remain objective while shooting Salesman with his brother David; even though the sibling filmmakers didn't like the way door-to-door Bible sellers were manipulating poor people, they wanted to show how the salesmen were victims, too. Author and radio commentator Mary Warnock focuses on the ways in which editing comes into play, while linguist Noam Chomsky talks about journalists who won't entertain alternative viewpoints for fear of upsetting media owners and advertisers. Investigative reporter Amy Goodman, the founder of Democracy Now!, closes with comments about the importance of giving a voice to citizens who don't normally have one, something that independent media can more easily accomplish. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Fennessy)