Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 459 – Part I.

YOUCAT Question n. 459 - Part I. What ethical responsibilities are connected with the communications media?

(Youcat answer) Media producers have a responsibility toward media consumers. Above all they must truthfully inform. In both the gathering and the publication of real news, the rights and dignity of individuals must be observed.   

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 2493) Within modern society the communications media play a major role in information, cultural promotion, and formation. This role is increasing, as a result of technological progress, the extent and diversity of the news transmitted, and the influence exercised on public opinion. 

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) The means of social communication should contribute to the establishment of justice, freedom, and solidarity in the world. In actual fact, the media are not uncommonly used as weapons in ideological conflict, or else, in a quest for higher ratings, all ethical regulation of the content is abandoned and the  media are turned into instruments for seducing people and making them dependent.

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 2494) The information provided by the media is at the service of the common good (Cf. IM 11). Society has a right to information based on truth, freedom, justice, and solidarity: The proper exercise of this right demands that the content of the communication be true and - within the limits set by justice and charity - complete. Further, it should be communicated honestly and properly. This means that in the gathering and in the publication of news, the moral law and the legitimate rights and dignity of man should be upheld (IM 5 § 2).   

(This question: What ethical responsibilities are connected with the communications media? is continued)