One video on YouTube has stirred major trouble around the world inciting riots in at least fourteen African countries resulting in the death of several Americans in Libya. Media can be a powerful tool for both good and evil so I would encourage everyone to develop and adhere to a strict code of ethics.
A Pledge For Online Video Responsibility has developed a code of ethics. It addresses issues such as "cyber-bullying", respecting others right to privacy, special protection of minors, respecting others' reputation, respecting others' right of publicity (one I really appreciate), video service provider guidelines, legal responsibilities, ethical obligations, being transparent, and respecting the truth and the facts.
These in general are good guidelines. As far as "I Will Be Transparent": I would say there could be cases where remaining anonymous is appropriate. For example, a whistleblower on a corporation or the government. Also under "I will respect the truth and facts" that is noble but I think the flipside is all of us need to realize all media should be "fact checked" and an amateur Youtube video isn't going to be a good source of objective facts.
ReplyDeleteAlso saying "In all matters pertaining to video recording public and private individuals, I will maintain my objectivity and integrity at all times" not sure that is a realistic goal if someone is making a video for an advocacy organization for example, it will be subjective.
(There are different opinions and issues relating to the Youtube video, riots, censorship, etc. Probably best to not discuss here though.)