The hottest Media Ethics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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New Recordings Point to Smear by Los Angeles Times Columnist Michael Hiltzik

The DisInformation Chronicle • 380 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Journalism Vaccine debate Public Health Political Discourse
  1. Michael Hiltzik, a columnist, has been accused of unethical behavior in his journalism, particularly related to COVID-19 vaccine injuries. This raises concerns about the integrity of the information being shared.
  2. Dr. Danice Hertz and Brianne Dressen, both of whom suffered from vaccine injuries, highlight that their experiences are often dismissed and labeled unfairly, emphasizing the need for more open dialogue and research into vaccine side effects.
  3. The reactions and symptoms reported by these individuals are real and significant, stressing the importance of informed consent and proper medical attention for those who experience adverse reactions to vaccines.

Contra Evan Urquhart On The Right To Journalistic Exclusion

Singal-Minded • 798 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Gender Issues Journalism Activism Public Debate
  1. Activists often want to shut down debates over youth gender medicine before they even start. They believe that there shouldn't be public discussions about how best to handle such a sensitive topic.
  2. Journalists have the right to use recorded audio from public spaces, even if someone doesn't want their voice in a story. If someone speaks where media can record, their words can be shared.
  3. Just because a source is unhappy about how they were portrayed in a story doesn't mean the journalism is bad or wrong. Journalism can upset people, and that's a normal part of the profession.

My Statement to Congress

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 23995 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Censorship Government funding Media Ethics Political speech
  1. The government should not control media or information. Instead of helping people decide what is true, it can weaken public trust in journalism.
  2. Censorship laws in other countries are becoming stricter, and many American citizens are currently facing repercussions for their speech abroad.
  3. Taxpayer money is being used to promote propaganda instead of real journalism, which can distort the truth and undermine democracy.

When it comes to scams, journalism is letting down the public

How to Survive the Internet • 139 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
📰 News Journalism Scams Public interest Media Ethics Investigative Reporting
  1. Many people have shared their scam experiences, highlighting how common these issues are. They often feel lost because police and mainstream media aren't helping them.
  2. Journalists can play a crucial role in exposing and stopping scams. It's important for them to recognize this responsibility beyond just informing the public.
  3. The media often misses ongoing scams because they lack the resources or willingness to investigate them. This can lead to many victims not receiving the help they need.

Maybe This is Why You Shouldn't Have Published the Andrew Huberman Story

Freddie deBoer • 16120 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Gender Issues Public Opinion Investigative Reporting Cultural criticism
  1. The Andrew Huberman story did not include serious allegations like those in the Neil Gaiman story. It focused on infidelity and tardiness instead of misconduct.
  2. The way the Huberman story was presented created misunderstandings, leading many to think it was a MeToo story. The excitement around it suggested serious accusations were involved.
  3. It's important for journalism to clearly differentiate between bad behavior and harmful misconduct. Mixing them can dilute the serious conversation around issues like sexual assault.
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Being Ghosted by the New York Times

Freddie deBoer • 13861 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political Commentary
  1. Freelancers often face a lack of communication from big publications like The New York Times. When they pitch ideas, they expect a simple 'no' if the piece isn't wanted, but many times they don’t receive any response at all.
  2. There's a sense of casual disrespect in the industry, especially from larger publications. Many freelancers and even some employees feel underappreciated and mistreated, which can create a toxic work environment.
  3. Despite the frustrations, freelancers still want to write for well-known outlets like The New York Times because of the exposure and audience they can reach. It’s important for these big publications to treat writers with respect to foster better relationships.

Journalists and Their Shadows (w/ Patrick Lawrence) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 90 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Journalism Political Power Corporate Influence Public Debate
  1. Mainstream media often serves the interests of the powerful rather than effectively informing the public. This compromises journalism's role in promoting open debate and public understanding.
  2. Journalists today often work under corporate pressures that distort their reporting, making them more likely to follow narratives that align with those in power instead of pursuing objective truth.
  3. Independent media outlets are becoming crucial for the future of journalism. They can provide more accurate information, but they also face increasing challenges and censorship in the digital age.

How to support journalism

The Watch • 677 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
📰 News Journalism Media Ethics Investigative Reporting Local news Political Coverage
  1. Support journalism by subscribing to trustworthy outlets. Subscriptions help keep essential news sources alive and able to do their work.
  2. You can also give to local news organizations and independent journalists directly. This helps them produce quality reporting that might otherwise struggle for funding.
  3. Encouraging emails and legal support is crucial for journalists facing threats. A simple note can uplift them, and legal services are vital as free press faces challenges.

UPDATE: A case study in unethical journalism

Popular Information • 14406 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
📰 News Journalism Media Ethics LGBTQ+ Education Credibility
  1. Popular Information reported on a school district in Florida instructing to remove books with LGBTQ characters.
  2. Social media played a role in spreading the report which was later confirmed by various media outlets.
  3. There was controversy surrounding a news report from certain TV stations presenting a different story and eventually taking down the report.

Best of The Free Press: Don’t Lie

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2448 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political History Election Analysis Political narratives
  1. Honesty is crucial in journalism, and it helps build trust. People prefer straightforward reporting over being misled or given spin.
  2. There has been a dangerous trend where some journalists prioritize their agendas over truth. This shift has hurt the credibility of the media.
  3. Understanding and sticking to the truth matters now more than ever. Good journalism can counteract the lies and misinformation that spread in society.

The News Should Not Be Torture Porn

Webworm with David Farrier • 6977 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
📰 News Media Ethics
  1. News coverage of crimes should avoid sensationalizing graphic details.
  2. There is a need for more respectful and thoughtful reporting on sensitive topics like crimes and tragedies.
  3. Media outlets should focus on informing the public responsibly instead of exploiting tragedies for clicks.

Gaza Tells Us Who We Are

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2123 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Social justice Public Opinion Media Ethics
  1. The crimes happening in Gaza show a deep moral failure in society. Many people ignore or accept these atrocities because it’s easier than confronting uncomfortable truths.
  2. The ongoing suffering in Gaza highlights how disconnected we are from the reality of those affected. It's troubling that we can witness such horror and do nothing to stop it.
  3. Ultimately, we will have to live with the knowledge of what has happened. The true horrors of our actions and our society will stay with us long after the violence ends.

Scientific American’s Purging of Laura Helmuth Is Only A Start

The DisInformation Chronicle • 1410 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🔬 Science Public Trust Health Communication Media Ethics
  1. Leaving behind hate-filled comments can lead to serious consequences, like getting fired or resigning from a job.
  2. Many science writers may share extreme political views that can affect the credibility of their journalism.
  3. To regain trust, media outlets need to clean up their practices and focus on reporting accurately, without political bias.

Transcript - America This Week, Dec. 20, 2024: "Damn! Defamation Suits Return, and the Killer Folk Legend Ascends"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1166 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues Journalism Defamation Media Ethics Political Commentary
  1. A recent settlement between ABC and Donald Trump over defamation highlights tensions in journalism. It raises questions about whether media outlets should stand firm against powerful figures or settle quickly to avoid lengthy legal battles.
  2. The legal standard for defamation is quite high, requiring proof of actual malice. This means journalists can make mistakes without facing severe penalties, as long as they aren't knowingly spreading false information.
  3. Many in the press are concerned that settling this lawsuit could set a troubling precedent and make journalists more hesitant to report on powerful people, potentially stifling free speech and critical journalism.

The Knight Foundation and The Signals Network are changing the future of whistleblowing

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 379 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Whistleblowing Health Policy Media Ethics Social justice
  1. The Knight Foundation and The Signals Network are focused on improving support for whistleblowers, making it easier for them to speak out against wrongdoing. This means better tools and resources for those who want to share their experiences.
  2. Whistleblowers play an important role in exposing corporate and government misconduct, which can lead to positive changes in society. Their courage helps hold powerful people accountable for their actions.
  3. Speaking out against injustices is often a difficult choice, but it's necessary for driving change. When individuals blow the whistle, they advocate for better systems that prioritize people's well-being over profit.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (w/ Omar El Akkad) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 146 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Media Ethics Human Rights Social justice Political Commentary
  1. Language can hide the truth about violence and suffering. It helps people look away without feeling guilty, making it easier to ignore what's really happening.
  2. Those living under oppression have their own ways to resist, and it's not fair for outsiders to dictate how they should fight back. Resistance comes in many forms, and often there's no right way to do it.
  3. Acts of love and solidarity are happening every day, even in difficult times. These small actions remind us that we are connected and that caring for one another is essential, despite the harsh realities around us.

Unauthorized Use of my Name

Letters from an American • 44 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Opinion Media Ethics Activism Political Identity
  1. The author has not supported or endorsed any events using their name. They want to make it clear that they do not know the event organizers.
  2. If the author decides to support something, they will personally announce it through their own social media or posts.
  3. The author is addressing confusion among people who are reaching out and clarifying their stance on the unauthorized use of their name.

AI Writing is Morally Superior

From the New World • 75 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI writing Machine Learning Natural Language Content creation Media Ethics
  1. AI writing is changing the landscape of writing by making it more accessible. This means more people can share their ideas without needing the same level of skill as traditional writers.
  2. The criticism against AI writing often comes from writers who feel threatened. They think that AI takes away the uniqueness of human style, but many believe it actually helps get good ideas out to more people.
  3. AI can help present complex ideas in simpler ways. This could be beneficial, allowing more people to understand important truths that might be lost in fancy language.

The 'Posie Parker' madness of New Zealand’s mainstream media in just seven days.

A B’Old Woman • 259 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Analysis Public Opinion Political Activism Gender Issues Media Ethics
  1. The mainstream media in New Zealand intensely covered Kellie-Jay Keen, also known as Posie Parker, with 158 news items in one week, mostly negative.
  2. Media coverage may have fueled violence against her and others at a rally, showing a lack of professionalism and a rush to judgment.
  3. After the rally, the media's tone changed slightly, but they initially downplayed the violence that occurred, reflecting inconsistent reporting.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 27.12.2024

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Election Analysis Political trends International relations Health Policies
  1. Children in England are facing serious health issues due to junk food, leading to obesity and stunted growth. Experts warn that this unhealthy diet could have long-term impacts on their future health.
  2. Many families, especially those struggling financially, cannot afford healthy food, making them reliant on cheaper junk food options. This economic barrier exacerbates the problem of child obesity in the country.
  3. Recent military actions have escalated tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Israel's attacks on Yemen. Ye men leaders have vowed to respond in kind, which could lead to further conflict in the region.

Slime Pays

Diane Francis • 719 implied HN points • 01 Apr 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Discourse Media Ethics Election Integrity
  1. Britain has used a caste system to control its people, based on social status and behavior. This creates a shame culture that still affects society today.
  2. Rupert Murdoch built a media empire that has influenced both British and American media with sensationalist and often unethical journalism. His outlets have been linked to serious scandals and controversies.
  3. Fox News brought a toxic style of media to America that focuses on divisive and dishonest narratives. This has harmed political discussion and credibility in journalism.

Commentator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 12 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Ethics Civil Liberties Political Scandals Public Opinion
  1. Russian nationalism has deep historical roots, especially highlighted by figures like Yeltsin and Putin. The fall of the Soviet Union is often seen through the lens of Russian interests rather than a broader collapse.
  2. There's a debate about whether graphic images from mass shootings should be shown in the media. Some believe exposing the public to these horrors can spur action, while others worry it might desensitize or even inspire further violence.
  3. Boris Johnson's recent political scandals reflect a shift in how politicians engage with the public. They often prioritize performance over genuine empathy, which might signal a long-lasting change in political culture.

The anonymous Telegram channel bearing witness for the world

Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends • 19 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
📰 News Social media Media Ethics
  1. South First Responders shares graphic images of Israel massacres on Telegram, drawing attention from major news outlets with verified content.
  2. The identity behind South First Responders remains mysterious, described as a volunteer group with no clear leadership or structure.
  3. Social media platforms like Telegram and X are now instrumental in sharing shocking images of conflict, impacting traditional news gatekeeping.

The Ministry Of Propaganda [Journalists Are Not Your Friends]

The Drug Users Bible • 0 implied HN points • 30 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Drug policy Public awareness Social justice
  1. Many journalists today are more focused on following the agenda set by their paymasters instead of reporting the truth. This can lead to misleading stories, especially about drugs.
  2. Education is key in reporting on drugs. Journalists should provide accurate information on drug safety and avoid using stigmatizing language.
  3. It's important for readers to be skeptical of mainstream media about drug issues. Journalists often have a narrative to follow that's not always trustworthy.