This is where the ethics come to play in journalism. So far we have been discussing different types of news stories, some more controversial than others. As far as the Derrion Albert story, the question arises of whether or not the news station should have bought the video taken leading up to his death. The graphic footage was sold to a Fox station in Chicago, and later aired on television.
I think that although it is a very upsetting story, news is news and the news corporations should be able to access current news. The only way to get a hold of this footage was by paying for it. I do not view it as exploiting Derrion’s death. These types of stories should be available to the public. Hopefully broadcasting these stories will prevent or aid in preventing further violent acts. I am not saying that airing this video will end all gang violence, but it will make people more aware of what is going on.
These are the eye-catching stories people turn on the news for. Stories such as Derrion’s up Fox’s ratings, and higher ratings equals more money. Basically, by buying this footage Fox was interested in increasing ratings, it was a business deal not an exploitation.
The video was hard to watch. I could not get the story out of my head for the next couple of days.
