1. Identifying opposing viewpoints: A journalist should actively seek out and identify different perspectives on a story, even if they are controversial or unpopular. This involves going beyond simply reporting the "official" or most widely held view.
2. Presenting opposing viewpoints fairly: Once different viewpoints are identified, they should be presented accurately and without bias. This means:
* Giving equal weight to each side: The amount of space or time devoted to each viewpoint should be roughly equivalent, unless there are compelling reasons to give more weight to one side.
* Quoting sources accurately: Direct quotes should be used sparingly, but when used, they should be accurate and representative of the source's actual views.
* Avoiding loaded language: The journalist should avoid using language that is slanted towards one side or the other.
3. Explaining the context and significance of the viewpoints: It's not enough to just present opposing views; the journalist should also explain why these views matter, and what their implications are for the issue being reported.
4. Acknowledging the limitations of the reporting: Journalists should be transparent about any limitations in their reporting, such as the inability to reach all parties involved or the difficulty in verifying certain claims.
Why is "oppose in balance" important?
* Promotes informed decision-making: By presenting a balanced view, readers and viewers are better equipped to make informed decisions about the issue at hand.
* Encourages critical thinking: A balanced report encourages readers and viewers to consider different perspectives and to think critically about the information they are presented with.
* Builds trust in the media: By presenting a fair and balanced view, journalists can build trust with their audience.
* Creates a more informed public discourse: A balanced media landscape can help to foster a more informed and respectful public discourse.
Examples of "oppose in balance" in practice:
* A news report on a proposed new law might include interviews with both supporters and opponents of the law, and might also explain the arguments for and against the law.
* A news report on a scientific discovery might present the findings of the research team, as well as the views of independent experts who might have different interpretations of the data.
Important Note:
While "oppose in balance" is a valuable principle, it's not a rigid rule. There are situations where it might be appropriate to give more weight to one side of a story, for example, if one side is demonstrably more accurate or credible. Ultimately, journalists should use their best judgment to determine how to present a story in a fair and balanced way.