Media Ethics Potter Box

Introduction

Ethics and values have different meaning and yet intertwined with each other. Ethics is the discipline that deals with what is morally right or wrong, good or bad. It often undergo with the ethical system that describes the critical process of how the people work with the moral issues. Meanwhile the values are the accepted principles or standards of an individual or a group. All the decision-making that involves in the values are highly reflected in the presuppositions regarding the social life and human nature.

The Ethical Reasoning

The ethical reasoning can be manifested in the different aspects of human life. In the professional aspect of an individual, the proximity, quality of service and magnitude, conflict, human interests, toughness, thoroughness, immediacy, and independency are the ethical traits. In terms of its effect with the moral values the truth-telling, humanness, justice and fairness, freedom, stewardship, honesty, non-violence, commitment, are self-control asserted. In the human art, the reasons that are considered should be harmonious, pleasing, and imaginative. On the other hand, in logical reasoning, there arrives the consistent, competitiveness, and knowledge are considered. And lastly in the socio-cultural aspect, the traits should be reflects in the individual’s ability to thrift, hard work, energy, restraint, and heterosexuality.

Potter Box of Ethical Reasoning in Media

There is a universal ground for making ethical decisions, to such; the ethical decision making can be a simple process of adjusting the morals and commitments of a given community. The Potter Box can be accounted through determining the ethical principles. Knowing the elements in moral analysis sharpens the vocabulary and enhances the knowledge in the media ethics. In understanding the logic of social ethics can help improve the quality of the conceptual work and validity of the choices being made in media practice. And through learning the four dimensions of the Potter Box allows the people to develop normative ethics.

Potter Box: Four Dimensions

1. Define the Situation - Define the ethical situation or dilemma and look at it in detail, from points of view other than your own. As the case develops, recognize that additional insights may cause you to adjust your selections in other quadrants of the Potter Box. You may have to return to this quadrant and go through the cycle again.

2. Identify the Values - The values and beliefs that define what you stand for. Values are helpful in rationalizing or defending your behavior. They are the standards of choice through which persons and groups seek consistency in our values. Some values are instrumentals, or desirable modes of conduct. Others are terminal, or end results.

3. Identify the Principles - Don’t moralize or give inconsistent, dogmatic, ad hoc advice. Use moral philosophy instead, giving general, consistent advice drawn from the wisdom of the ages. The ethical principles, as laid down by philosophers, should illuminate the issues.

4. Choose your Loyalties - To whom are you ultimately loyal, and to whom at intermediate steps are you loyal? Who gets hurt? Who benefits? You may have competing loyalties to yourself, your family and friends, your boss, your company or firm, your professional colleagues, your audience, your news sources, and to society at large.

Beyond the Potter Box

A decision can be based on the Moral development theory which is applicable when an individual is confronted with the difficulties, additional dilemmas or other situation where the risks are high. If there is a need to evaluate the morality of all known alternatives, but the best alternative is not necessarily the one that passes the greatest number of moral tests, rather, it’s the one that best satisfies the higher-stage criteria. While, outside the Potter Box, the Grid Based decision making can be the basis. It proposes that the process should be finding the one and many situations or people involved. With that, an individual can define the opposites and apply the principles in decision making.

Conclusion

In decision making, one is bound to look through the reasons and thus, falls into the category of ethical reasoning. In order to generate the appropriate judgment, particularly in media settings, the person involved should understand the complexities in the nature of his work and consider the other elements that might affect his decision. Ethical reasoning is made to form a system that can be applied or use by the other individual. The individual should need to be open in his or her environment for it deliberately creates an impact.

Works Cited:

Christians, C., (2003) Ethical Decision-making Models across the Professions: Ethical Development (A Process) Ethical Reflections & Reasoning [Online] Available at: http://commfaculty.fullerton.edu/lester/courses/517/decision_making.doc [Accessed 09 Aug 2010].

Sowa, B.C., (2006) Ethical Simulations and Ethics "minutes", Public Relations Quarterly, Vol. 51

Williams, R.B., (1997) Aids Testing, Potter, and TV News Decisions, Journal of Mass Media Ethics, Vol. 12

Effects of Business Process Outsourcing on the Performance of Communication Industry in Kenya

Introduction

In a recognizable emerging market, it is significant interventions that can support the nation’s total growth. It is important, more likely, among the third world countries to improve the telecommunications and for the additional support for the growth of their economy. Even if the globalization is evaluated to give both positive and negative effects in both domestic and international business, still, the actions of the countries toward in facilitating the improvement should remain consistent because of the risks involved.

Background and Problem Statement

Africa is seems benefited from the introduction of business process outsourcing (BPO). As based on the research for development, there is a clear aim in bridging the gap of insufficient data and statistics on BPO in many African countries. The BPO sector in developed and developing countries provides empirical evidence and deeper understanding of the success factors for better inform policy decisions and investment choices. Both Kenya and Ghana, as regions of Africa recognized the nature of services involved in BPO. However, what would be the effects of BPO in the performance of the communication industry, particularly in Kenya?

Research Aim and Objectives

The main aim of the study is to identify the various effects of BPO in the country through concentrating on the communication industry. Bearing the hope that there is a great opportunity to bridge the gap of information, the objectives of the study are therefore set. First is to recognizing the pioneers of the idea and obtaining their anticipated results. Second is to identify the target emerging and mature markets in which the study can provide the deeper understanding on the policy decisions and investments within Kenya. And third is to relate the critical success and associated factors in BPO industries in developing countries compared to the level of improvement in Kenya.

Literature Review

The BPO is an independent Company duly incorporated in Kenya carrying on the business of a Business Process Outsourcing Operator in Kenya and is duly registered with the Communication Commission of Kenya. Moreover, the Government of Kenya has identified Business Process Outsourcing as having the highest potential to create employment for economic and social empowerment for the unemployed and especially the youth. It has been noted that the BPO operators in Kenya are disadvantaged by the high cost of bandwidth in Kenya and are therefore not able to compete on fair terms with other BPO destinations globally. But with the help of the negotiations and schemes all of the hindrances are eliminated (Kenya ICT Board, 2008).The BPO industries in developing countries promises to empower the policy and institutional environment, legal and regulatory considerations, incentives and infrastructure and bandwidth requirements, as examined with the developed countries. For Kenya, the effects of a bandwidth subsidy will be of special importance because the government promised to subsidize bandwidth costs up to 90 percent through a World Bank grant. While examining the capacity needs and training requirements, such as the choice of a BPO destination, trends, types, and operations (Wanjiku, 2008). The successful acquisition of a group of BPO in the shares of the communication is expected to continue (Singh, et al., 2009). Government of Kenya has identified BPO industry as a key engine for job creation for the country. The Government is keen to provide the best possible environment for this industry to grow fast. The cost of international broadband capacity has been identified as a key constraint which limits the growth potential of the BPO industry. The Government is looking at supporting the local BPO industry to buy bandwidth at nearly the same price level as what the industry competitors elsewhere are paying or at the expected post submarine cable availability costs (whichever is higher to guarantee sustainability). The project will provide targeted cost subsidies to the industry to level down the cost of the communications input (Kenya ICT Board, 2008).

Methodology

The suggested method in the study is the use of secondary information. The materials needed in order to facilitate and obtain the needed information are the annual reports, articles, business reviews, and Internet that provides ideas focusing on the BPO in Kenya. Through reviewing the contexts and analyzing the impacts of BPO, the study can draw the effects of BPO in the communication industry of Kenya. With the help of the findings, the study can generate its conclusion and assuring that the aim is satisfied.

References:

Kenya ICT Board (2008) Kenya Transparency & Communications Infrastructure Project [Online] Available at: http://www.kenyabposociety.or.ke/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=3&Itemid=29 [Accessed 13 July 2010].

Singh, A., Khurana, A., Malik, R., & Goel, A., (2009) Business Process Outsourcing Newsletter, [Online] Available at: http://www.avendus.com/researchpapers/docs/Avendus_Outsourcing_Newsletter_October_2009.pdf [Accessed 13 July 2010].

Wanjiku, R., (2008) Africa to Benefit from IDRC Outsourcing Study, IDG News Service, International Data Group Inc. [Online] Available at: http://www.cio.com/article/339313/Africa_to_Benefit_From_IDRC_Outsourcing_Study [Accessed 13 July 2010].

My Responsibilities as Future Media Practitioner

Introduction

Communication changed the lives of many people; and because of the application of various technologies and innovation in communication system, there is no doubt that there is a need for a medium in communication. One of the medium in terms of communication is the media which describes as very influential because it reaches every parts of the world. The continuous evolution of the world makes the media be an essential source of information and entertainment.

What is Media?

Media is entirely refers to communication such as television, radio, newspaper, films and other types, that will transfer information. Media can be also considered as a form of data gathering and storing it, as well. Many people rely in the existence of media and its source of information and in some ways, the media literacy is expecting to affect both genders, adult or young. In the current generation, information can be compressed in a minimum time and broadcasted or hosted different households, and other facilities. The media today is categorized as both entertaining and educational with a fact that it promises accuracy and authenticity.

Challenges

The changes in the environment are the most critical issue and thus the evolution of media is created to accompany the changes. This trend appeared in many countries to increase the competency of the media practitioners. The basic principle in communication is to support the relations in the society along with the effects of globalization and modernization and thus there should be an adjustment. In the journey of adjustments, the improvements are also expected which the practitioners often ignores. The practitioner’s personal growth should be part of their career path and usually the application of technologies and seeking the available opportunities can aid the practitioner’s development (Horton, 2005).

Responsibilities of Media Practitioner

As a practitioner, one must understand that very most principle of media is to deliver the art of literacy. Media literacy is more than just consuming information, it is also the ability of an individual to produce, create and successfully communicate information (Considine, (1995). In that way, the practitioner can be recognized as an effective addressor of the issues or information. Part of the responsibility of the practitioner is to have a responsive way in answering the needs of the society through the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and communicate information into a variety of format including print and non-print. A practitioner is basically acquired the ability to recognize and comprehend information to the higher order critical thinking skills.

In general, media provides the construction difference relationship between reality and the representations of reality. The media shows a world that is fully selected and carefully assembled to make it seems all but true. The learning here, is to distinguish the things that only the reflection of reality, and that is another part of the practitioners’ responsibilities. Also practitioners enable to conceptualize the audiences as recipients of media messages and mostly, the investigation takes place by exploring the different perceptions and perspectives of the individuals in order to draw the ideas regarding the focus of the report or topic.

Practitioners should relive the principle of media through conveying the messages. If the practitioner successfully investigated the information and delivered it to the people and created influence then, the media itself shows, shapes, reflects and reinforces in reality. Conceptualization is another unique skill of the practitioners which is useful in delivering the information. On the other hand, the media is criticized between the alternative and mainstream media. But because of the learning and experience applied by the practitioners, there is an effective conversation and sharing. As another responsibility of a media practitioner, the assessment of information is tackled because of the wide range of viewers.

In the attempt of mapping the initiatives and associated approach to responsibilities, the media practitioner should be awareness in exploring and developing the relationship between the media and the society. The documents relating to the topic discussed or meant to be discussed should be appropriately compiled or outlined to sort the valuable information and provide better understanding for their audiences. Media practitioners can use the power to encourage the society to participate, consult, and share their ideals which is welcome in terms of politics, economy, and societal issues (Mediawise, 1999).

Conclusion

Media practitioners should employ the sign of professionalism and integrity in their profession, for this is the one and only thing that cannot be stolen by anyone. In addition, practitioners should know the boundaries onto what they are dealing with. Practitioners might learn a lot from their seniors and therefore, but it is not advisable to stick on their seniors’ styles instead, explore their other potential for their own professional development.

References:

Considine, D., (1995). An Introduction to Media Literacy: The What, Why and How To's. Telemedium, The Journal of Media Literacy Vol. 41, No. 2. [Online] Available at: http://www.ced.appstate.edu/departments/ci/programs/edmedia/medialit/article [Accessed 05 July 2010].

Horton, J.L., (2005) The Future of Media Relations [Online] Available at: http://www.online-pr.com/Holding/Future_of_Media_Relations.PDF [Accessed 05 July 2010].

Mediawise, (1999) The Oslo Challenge [Online] Available at: http://www.mediawise.org.uk/files/uploaded/Oslo%20Challenge.pdf [Accessed 05 July 2010]

Freedom of Press in India

Introduction

There are different systems with different perspective about the issue of global freedom. The states are assessing the formulation of the press freedom and to be applied in the world system. The press freedom is about the power being centered in the specific issue that is supported by different technological aspect in bringing the information and communication. The freedom of expression is an evolving issue around the world. And different countries are attempting to provide such law in which people can fully embrace their right.

History of Press Freedom in India

In the view of democracy, it only means that people or the citizens can enjoy full freedom of speech and expression and can be only restricted within the reasonable subject. During the era when the press council in India felt anxiety, the birth of the Media Law is implemented and followed by the Press Regulations that significantly had an impact on the publishing industry. Next is the introduction of the compulsory licensing for owning and running the printing presses which is typically empowered by the government. This action simply means to prohibit the publication or circulation of any newspaper, book, or other printed material. The banning of the publication or dissemination created a commotion against the government that effectively weakened the power of authority. This process continued and through the years brought a significant change and created a fundamental right in the constitution. The entire developed article in the institution of the country speaks about the freedom to express and expression and the birth of the Press Council in India (Sinha, 2003).

Press should be Free

The participation of people in the press freedom is considered as a way towards development and yet still challenged by the phases of traditional to modernization paradigm. Based on the social science, the world system should be whole in terms of the development. In the measurement of the past researchers in the press freedom of one country, many criticisms gave an impact to the press and the media. The press freedom has an advocate that will give a hard definition in the eyes of the government-run media at the international level. In the traditional stream of delivering information, the government has the control in the unfavorable information and the desire to implement the press freedom as the world system is far more apparent (Gunaratne, 2002).

The freedom of press has always been the most interesting topic in democracies and rights of people. The interests on the freedom are growing since there is a growth and development of representative democracy which is also in accordance of the growth of the press and its relation to the modern democracy. The freedom of press is not absolute, unlimited, and unregulated at all times an in all circumstances for it might lead in the disorder. The press freedom holds and guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression. In the economic and business aspect, the press should also provide an equal freedom in profession, occupation, trade or business and includes the provisions for public interest, professional, and technical qualification, and other specifications (Sinha, 2003).

Challenges in Press Freedom

To explore the emerging and rapidly evolving environment that contributes in the idea of press freedom, the creation of the new electronic data and expansion on the democratic rights are great challenges. The new media that holds the idea of press freedom serves a platform for dialogues across the borders and definitely allows the innovation to approach in the distribution and acquisition of knowledge. The vital role of press freedom is also bound to regulate and censor both access and content to protect the viewers. The guiding principles that applied in the new media is almost similar from the traditional wave of media. But the new media that recognizes the press freedom is the center for building of a strong democracies and promoting the participation among the civilians and the law to foster the human development and security (Schmidt, 2007).

Conclusion

The efforts to promote the freedom of expression among the press are basic exercise for the human rights and democratic citizenship. The challenge is within the commitment of the people into the reality that acknowledges the opportunity to participate regardless of the barriers. People should understand that communication is the most fundamental social process, one of the basic human needs and the strong foundation of the social organization. Therefore, everyone is encourages to participate and enjoy their rights.

References:

Gunaratne, S., 2002. Freedom of the Press: A World System Perspective. The International Journal for Communication Studies, Vol. 64, No. 4 [Online] Available at: http://www.mnstate.edu/gunarat/freedom.pdf [Accessed 18 Feb 2010].

Schmidt, M., 2007. New Media – Expanding Press Freedom: International Commitment Guarantee Media Freedoms. New Media: The Press Freedom Dimension Challenges and Opportunities of New Media for Press Freedom. [Online] Available at: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0015/001520/152017e.pdf [Accessed 18 Feb 2010].

Sinha, AK., 2003. Constitutional History of Indian Press Freedom, Freedom of Press in India: An Overview. [Online] Available at: http://www.indlawnews.com/Display.aspx?9bb8c608-79d5-4015-801f-98b6448e0a31 [Accessed 18 Feb 2010].