Blog
10.28
Irony in Journalism: Jayson Blair to speak about ethics?
No, really.
You remember the story about Jayson Blair? It was May 2003 and the "old gray lady" published a scathing article about what its publisher considered "a profound betrayal of trust and a low point in the 152-year history of the newspaper."
In short, prolific reporter Blair was getting all the scoops on the streets and the nods from the corner office. Come to find out, he was a liar, liar, pants on fire and later unceremoniously booted out without cab fare.
He fabricated comments. He concocted scenes. He lifted material from other newspapers and wire services. He selected details from photographs to create the impression he had been somewhere or seen someone, when he had not.
Obviously, it was romanced in the media for quite a while... and on TV as the "Law & Order" cracked crew of crime and caveats took on the Blair imbroglio for some ratings... er, research.
Well, after a few stints working as the fry guy for several reputable fast-food franchises, Blair is going on a public speaking tour to discuss ethics. But of course.
The topic is entitled "Lessons Learned". Blair will be speaking at Washington and Lee University's Journalism Ethics Institute. Memo to the students too young to remember 2003, consult your case study section. I'm sure he's in there.
Post new comment