Objectivity in Journalism

Objectivity in journalism is something that writers have been chasing after since the first written records, but the real question is, is this goal even achievable? Or are all journalists on a wild goose chase, seeking a goal they will never reach? Before we can answer that question, I think we need to define what it means to be objective. According to dictionary.com, to be objective is to, “not be influenced by personal feelings, interpretations, or prejudice; based on facts; unbiased.” In theory it sounds so simple, but to actually put this into practice proves much more difficult. Humans are prone to making a judgment about a person or a situation before they even know what is really going on, however I believe that it is possible to prevent this from happening. It would take time and discipline, but it is possible. David Brooks, author of “Objectivity in Journalism”, provides a way to measure our objectivity and viable steps to achieve it. He says, “I think that there is truth out there, and that objectivity is like virtue; it’s the thing you always fall short of, but the thing you always strive toward.” We may never achieve perfect objectivity, but we can come as close as humanly possible.
Brooks gives us steps to remain objective. The first one is to look at all the facts, not just the ones that confirm what we believe. That isn’t always easy, but it’s extremely important! The second step is to remain modest. This means to limit your self-exposure, and seek more than just a boost for your ego. The third step is to process all the data, you have to make sure and take into account every single fact, so that you don’t come to a biased conclusion. The fourth stage is the ability to betray friends. This sounds heartless, but you have to have the strength to seek the absolute truth, not your friends or coworker’s truth. The 5th stage is the ability to ignore stereotypes, this is not easy because whether it’s on purpose or by accident we stereotype, but in order to remain truth objective, we have to master this. The last stage is to understand that you need to be a little dull. It’s easy to blast someone with a mean article, but more often than not, it is undeserved. When we follow these steps we are well on our way to being objective! Although it will take time and effort, writing objectively is completely possible. I never said it would be easy, but as journalists and Christians, your job is to bring the whole truth, not just your own truth!