World News
Editors propose first update to journalism ethics code in 12 years to address AI
The Society of Professional Journalists' draft code also attempts to account for a growing number of independent creators and a decline in public trust.
The short version
- The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Ethics Committee has drafted a revised version of its voluntary code of ethics.
- This draft represents the first update to the code in 12 years and only the sixth in its 100-year history.
- The broader SPJ membership is scheduled to vote on whether to adopt the revised code in October.
Key facts
- The SPJ Ethics Committee drafted a 967-word revised code of ethics during meetings that concluded in Indianapolis in June.[Associated Press]
- The updates are designed to address the rise of generative artificial intelligence, the growth of independent and creator journalists, and declining public trust in media.[Associated Press]
- The code's four core principles—Seek Truth and Report It, Minimize Harm, Act Independently, and Be Accountable and Transparent—remain unchanged.[Associated Press]
- The draft code does not mention AI by name, referring instead to "tools and technologies" to maintain relevance as technology changes.[Associated Press]
- The revision replaces the phrase "Give voice to the voiceless" with language encouraging journalists to counter the unfair marginalization of those with less power.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- It remains to be seen whether the broader SPJ organization will vote to approve the proposed draft code in October.[Associated Press]