ETHICS OF BROADCASTING

Radio Record, Volume II, Issue 1, 20 July 1928, Page 15

ETHICS OF BROADCASTING

AN industry, like an individual, be- *" comes a useful member of society, when it attains consciousness of its moral duty to others. During its early, struggle for existence neither an individual nor an industry can think of aught but itself. But as either grows in strength it begins to think of others in terms of its ideal behaviour toward them. The fineness of these ideals is a measure of the real development of the industry or individual. Consequently, great interest shoull be attached to the first code of ethics which has been recommended for adoption by the United States National As sociation of Broadcasters as printed in the latest number of their official publication. Do the broadcasters really realise their morat duty and responsibility? Are they ready to be admitted to the ranks of those who are working for human advancement? jTheir code of ethics answers affirma- { tively :--

"1. To realise that radio enters into the daily lives of a greater number of people than any other man-created or man-directed activity since civilisation began, "2. To realise that no enterprise can long endure and prosper unless it ren« ders a real service to humanity. ; "3, To be conscious that the yasté audience we reach is of mixed tendencies, prejudices, and beliefs, and toa guard against any utteranee or false note that might offend the sensibilities of any. | "4, To realise that radio goes as an intimate friend into the homes, and helps to mould the minds of . little children as well as of grown-ups. ; "5. To realise that the development of better cultural standards, better live ing, and better thinking is onr principal mission. "6, To realise that there is a greatez gain in holding fast to an ideal than in the temporary advancement of any individual station."