Like Caesar's Wife

     We live in the real world and yet, journalists are expected to be pure as Caesar's Wife. The revisions to the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics caution us about the pitfalls.

     "Act independently," the code says. That's sort of ingrained in the DNA of the average journalist, actually.

     "Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. Disclose unavoidable conflicts." 

     As with many other items in the revised code, this calls for a little common sense. You don't cover the town you live in. If something happens there and you are the only one there, or the first, just do your job.

     It's inevitable. You walk into a rally and an old friend from high school is carrying a placard and a megaphone. So, look for another spokesperson, even though he's following you around. With the megaphone. 

      We are also admonished to "refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel and special treatment and avoid political and other outside activities that may compromise integrity or may damage credibility. 

     The idea of gifts or favors in this day and age is pretty outrageous. Nobody offers anything of value. But, if they should, you say no.

     Now, if Oma Trautheimer brings in a basket of plum Danish, I wouldn't suggested turning her down. You never know about those German grandmothers. 

     With the hours most of us work, getting involved in anything doesn't seem even possible. Even sleep doesn't often seem possible. Or regular meals. Nonetheless, remember, we have to stay away from politics, which, trust me, includes the PTA. I had a deal with my friend Kathleen. She went to PTA meetings and let me know if there was anything I needed to know. 

     I taught Sunday School. That was pretty safe. 

     Still, people bug you. No, I can't put a campaign sign on my lawn. I can't speak out at a town meeting. Yes, I'll provide refreshments for the cub scout pack meeting. Unfortunately, it's not always that simple. 
  
     The code also cautions us to be wary of sources offering information for favors or money. I was never asked, but if somebody asks, you say no.

     Special interests and/or advertisers are always asking for quid pro quo. But that's a problem for the publisher. Sometimes it's nice not to be an executive.