identify a case in media ethics in which you would have acted differently than the media practitioner(s) at the center of it
What’s your problem? Briefly describe the case and what choices were made. (You may attach a published blog, article, case study, or news story as a link or as an appendix for background.) Spell out what makes this situation a moral dilemma. Leave yourself with a clearly stated question to be answered.
Why not follow the rules? Are there some precedents, guidelines, codes, or laws you should keep in mind? If so, are there reasons your dilemma can’t be resolved by them? If not, what guidelines might the originator used?
Who wins, who loses? Who are the stakeholders, and what impact is your decision likely to have on each of them in the short term and in the long term? Be sure to address both winners AND losers in your case.
What’s it worth? Prioritize your values—both moral and non-moral values—and decide which one(s) you won’t compromise. This may be the place to address why the losers are acceptable losses.
Who’s whispering in your ear? In general—and specifically in this case—which school of philosophy or set of moral principles provides you with a moral compass?
How’s your decision going to look? State your conclusion, and imagine what your friends and people you respect will think about your decision-making. How will this impact your decision?