Hutchins Commission

Definition

The Hutchins Commission, formally known as the Commission on Freedom of the Press, was established in 1947 to address the challenges facing American journalism and to explore the role of the press in a democratic society. It produced a landmark report emphasizing the necessity for objectivity and impartiality in reporting, asserting that journalists have a social responsibility to provide accurate information and facilitate public discourse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Hutchins Commission was formed in response to concerns about the quality and integrity of journalism in post-World War II America.
2. Its 1947 report emphasized five essential functions of a free press: providing truthful information, serving as a forum for exchange of comment and criticism, protecting the rights of individuals, reflecting the diversity of society, and being responsible to its audience.
3. The commission argued that journalists should not only report facts but also analyze them and consider their implications for society.
4. One major outcome was the call for more rigorous journalistic education to promote ethical reporting practices and enhance the quality of news coverage.
5. The Hutchins Commission's recommendations laid the groundwork for future discussions on media ethics and responsibilities, influencing both journalistic standards and public expectations.

Review Questions

• How did the Hutchins Commission address the challenges faced by journalism in the mid-20th century?
  • The Hutchins Commission tackled mid-20th century journalism challenges by examining issues like sensationalism, bias, and the decline in public trust. The commission proposed that journalists take on a social responsibility to provide accurate, comprehensive information that serves democracy. This involved an emphasis on objectivity, as well as a commitment to presenting diverse viewpoints within society.
• In what ways did the Hutchins Commission's recommendations influence the development of journalistic standards and practices?
  • The recommendations from the Hutchins Commission had a significant impact on journalistic standards by advocating for an ethical framework that emphasized objectivity and social responsibility. The call for enhanced journalistic education led to improved training programs focusing on ethics and critical thinking skills. This influenced how news organizations operated, as they began to prioritize accuracy, accountability, and diverse representation in their reporting.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Hutchins Commission on contemporary media's approach to objectivity and impartiality in reporting.
  • The long-term effects of the Hutchins Commission on contemporary media can be seen in ongoing debates surrounding objectivity and impartiality in reporting. Its emphasis on social responsibility continues to shape how journalists view their role in society, pushing for accountability and transparency. As media landscapes evolve with technology and social platforms, the foundational principles set forth by the commission still challenge journalists to navigate complex issues while striving to provide unbiased information that upholds democratic values.

Related terms

Social Responsibility Theory: A media theory that suggests that the press has a duty to serve society by providing truthful and comprehensive information while upholding ethical standards.

Objectivity: The practice of maintaining neutrality and impartiality in journalism by separating facts from opinions and biases.

Press Freedom: The principle that allows media organizations to operate independently without censorship or government interference, essential for a democratic society.