Unit 2. Libel and underhand methods

Lead-in:

MESSENGER/WRITING PROJECT

Do you know the program messenger? Messenger is a way of communicating from one computer to another in “real time”. One person types a message on their computer and the other person can read it immediately on their computer. It is like an internet chat between two people.

Ø Divide into pairs and get a card. You should have a conversation with each other for three minutes, but you cannot say anything.

Ø You must do this in writing. One learner writes a message on the piece of paper and hands it to the other learner. The other learner writes a response and hands it back to the first learner.

Ø Mingle in working groups (pairs that have Card1), compare your messages and elaborate integrated answers.

Card 1

The United States has the freest press in the world, as guaranteed by the First Amendment to wherever it may take them, and to cover topics, as The New York Times motto puts it, “without fear or favor.”

Does it mean that reporters can write anything they want? Do reporters have the right to libel the people they write about?

Card 2

Should a journalist cheat? How far do you agree with the statement “If a reporter is not proficient enough his rumor, innuendo, gossip and usage of underhand methods may be justifiable”?

Ø Scan the following “three dogs’ theory”. Is it somehow related to the world of journalism?

The “three dogs’ theory” may be helpful to illustrate how one can easily fall into one’s own trap: a man rings at your door and complains that your dog has bitten him. Your first answer according to the theory is: "I do not have a dog!" That is the moment when your dog comes running around the house, barking loudly. You now refer to the “second dog theory” and say: “I do have a dog, but it does not bite.” That is unfortunately the moment where your dog bites the man again. You then have to refer to your third and last dog theory; “I do have a dog. It does bite once in a while – but it does not hurt!” Your credibility, of course, fades away with every theoretical reorientation, as you are clearly only admitting what has already been proven.

Ø Should reporters feel the need to self-censor if they do have a free press?

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