Topic: Media Smorgasbord
Over the course of one week, please compile 3-4 examples of unethical behavior in the media, including advertisements, magazines, TV, radio, and even feature-length films.
In your discussion, complete the following:
• Identify the source and scene (if applicable).
• Identify the ethical violation that was committed.
• Explain modifications to the source or scene that could be used to correct the ethics violation.
Guide On Rating System
Vote
Example 1: Advertisement in a Magazine
Source: A popular fashion magazine
Scene: A cosmetic advertisement promoting a skincare product claims that regular usage will result in "flawless skin within a week."
Ethical Violation: False advertising
Explanation: The unethical behavior in this advertisement is making a false claim about the product's effectiveness, creating misleading expectations for consumers. To correct this violation, the advertisement should provide accurate information about the product's benefits and include a disclaimer highlighting that individual results may vary.
Example 2: TV Show
Source: A reality TV competition show
Scene: Contestants are subjected to intense psychological manipulation and are encouraged to engage in harmful behavior for dramatic effect.
Ethical Violation: Exploitation and manipulation of contestants
Explanation: This TV show is exploiting the vulnerability of the contestants for entertainment purposes, which is unethical. To correct this violation, the show could ensure that contestants are well-informed about the potential challenges they may face and provide appropriate psychological support during and after the show. Additionally, the competition should focus on healthy competition rather than encouraging harmful behavior.
Example 3: Radio Talk Show
Source: A popular radio talk show
Scene: The host engages in derogatory and offensive language towards a guest during a discussion about a sensitive topic.
Ethical Violation: Discrimination and offensive language
Explanation: The host's behavior is both discriminatory and offensive, as it shows a lack of respect and empathy towards the guest. To correct this violation, the talk show host should exercise more sensitivity and ensure that discussions are respectful and inclusive. The show could also have a policy in place to ensure that guests are not subjected to derogatory language or discrimination.
Example 4: Feature-Length Film
Source: A highly anticipated action movie
Scene: A female character is consistently portrayed as a sexual object, with her appearance and body being heavily emphasized throughout the film.
Ethical Violation: Objectification and sexism
Explanation: The film's portrayal of the female character as a sexual object perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and objectification. To correct this violation, the film could give the character more depth and agency, focusing on her abilities, personality, and goals rather than reducing her to a mere object. The film could also strive to provide more balanced and diverse representations of women.