Absence of Malice - Navigating Ethics in Journalism
Davidek:
Have we spoken with Mr. Gallagher?
Megan Carter:
We don't call the mafia for comment.
Davidek:
Please, make the attempt. If he talks, we'll include his denials to create the appearance of fairness. If he declines to speak, we can hardly be responsible for errors. If we fail to reach him, we've tried.
Megan Carter:
What are you telling me?
Davidek:
That as a matter of law, the truth is irrelevant. We have no knowledge the story is false, therefore we're absent malice. We've been both reasonable and prudent, therefore we're not negligent. We may say whatever we like about Mr. Gallagher, and he is powerless to do us harm. Democracy is served.
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