In the world of journalism, ethics is an important element that is usually subject to interpretation and debate. Where is the line drawn between cold hard news, and agenda? Who is guilty of leaning into their biases, and who is guilty of pushing a certain narrative? These questions rack the minds of those who work in the industry, and the onlooking public of which who consume their content.
Whether it’s other outlets like Fox and CNN criticizing each other for not being objective, or TMZ seeking hot button stories for social media clicks over delivering valuable information, many seeking to take up the mantle of journalism are divided on how to approach ethics.
Well, while the industry is filled with do’s and do-nots, aspiring reporters need not to look further than their local comic book shop for a guide on how not to keep their jobs. There are two specific runs of comics that depict the most disgusting behavior known in the history of journalism. So unabashedly unashamed of their actions, simply using this meaningful outlet as a way to promote their own propaganda, branding, and public relations campaigns, while getting paid to do it!
Using their secret identities to trick the public into a favorable view of their personal escapades. Both Peter Parker and Clark Kent are the worst examples of what a journalist should be. Not only do they fake their own content by interviewing themselves to look more likeable in the papers, but also using the news as a form of damage control.
Anytime Spider-Man gets too rowdy in his fights with Doc Ock and destroys an entire block, Parker will come to save the day. Parker justifies his destruction to “set the record straight” by stating things like, “he needed to be stopped or he would destroy the city.” Meanwhile, thousands of people without insurance are suffering from the consequences while Parker uses the Daily Bugle as his personal platform for public engagement, using his stories and photos to push his intended narrative to the public.
Meanwhile, Kent claims to have gotten an exclusive interview with Superman in order to help reconcile his actions for playing god. Lying to the public to help build up his image as Superman. Kent uses the Daily Planet as a way to promote the kryptonian crusader’s brand, instead of holding himself accountable for not completely dealing with the threat of Lex Luthor. It’s brand management with a byline.
While it’s undeniable the effects of heroes like Spider-Man and Superman have, being an unmovable force for good on their worlds, Parker and Kent are some of the most unethical and lying pathetic excuses for journalists and should’ve been fired after their first columns.
