Law And Ethics Test

The correct answer is A 1996 law requiring federal agencies to make most of their records available to the public upon request. This answer accurately describes the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which was indeed enacted in 1996. The FOIA is a federal law that allows individuals to request access to government information, including records held by federal agencies. This law promotes transparency and accountability by ensuring that the public has the right to access government records and information.

Breach of contract refers to the act of breaking a legally binding agreement or promise. In this context, publishing the name of a confidential source after promising not to do so is considered a breach of contract. This action violates the terms of the agreement made between the publisher and the source, thereby breaking the trust and confidentiality promised.

Contempt of Court refers to the act of refusing to disclose the source of information used in a story to a judge. This can be seen as a form of defiance towards the court and can result in legal consequences. It is important for journalists to protect their sources, but in certain cases, the court may require this information for the proper administration of justice. By refusing to comply with the court's request, it is considered as contemptuous behavior.

Fair Comment and Criticism refers to the right of journalists to express their opinions regarding the performance of public figures or entertainers. This means that journalists have the freedom to provide their own analysis and evaluation of the actions and abilities of individuals in the public eye. It allows them to offer their perspective and critique without fear of legal repercussions, as long as their comments are based on facts and are not intended to defame or harm the reputation of the person being criticized.

Fair Report Privilege is a legal protection that allows journalists to report anything said in official government proceedings, regardless of how slanderous it may be, without being sued. This privilege ensures that journalists can accurately report on important government activities without fear of legal repercussions, promoting transparency and freedom of the press.

Libel refers to the act of publishing falsehoods that aim to hold someone up to public ridicule or scorn. It involves spreading false information about someone that damages their reputation and causes them to be ridiculed or scorned by the public.

Lapses in ethics refer to behavior, whether it occurs on or off the job, that has the potential to harm the reputation of a publication. This can include actions such as plagiarism, where someone presents someone else's words or ideas as their own, or breaking a promise to keep a confidential source anonymous by revealing their name. These unethical behaviors can undermine the credibility and trustworthiness of a publication, leading to damage to its reputation.

Sedition refers to activities or writings that incite resistance or hostility towards the government. This means that any actions or written materials that encourage people to oppose or show hostility towards the government can be considered seditious. Sedition laws are in place to prevent actions that may disrupt the stability and functioning of the government.

Fabrication refers to the act of creating or inventing false information, quotes, or events for a story. This behavior, whether it occurs on or off the job, has the potential to harm the reputation of the publication. It involves manufacturing or falsifying facts, which is a serious ethical breach in journalism.