Ethical Decision-Making in Media: Quizzes and Practice Questions

Question 1

According to the National Union of Journalists' Code of Conduct, which fundamental ethical principle should media professionals uphold?

Accepted Answer

Accuracy and fairness

Answer

Objectivity and impartiality

Answer

Sensationalism and drama

Answer

Exclusivity and competition

Question 2

As per the Ofcom Broadcasting Code, which characteristic is protected, meaning broadcasters cannot discriminate based on this factor?

Accepted Answer

Disability

Answer

Gender

Answer

Political affiliation

Answer

Social class

Question 3

Which ethical theory focuses on the outcomes of actions, seeking to maximize good consequences and minimize harm?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Consequentialism

Question 4

In the context of media ethics, what is the primary purpose of ethical principles?

Accepted Answer

To provide guidance for ethical decision-making

Answer

To guarantee the accuracy of information

Answer

To ensure public trust in the media

Answer

To eliminate all potential ethical dilemmas

Question 5

As outlined by the Society of Editors' Code of Practice, what is the primary duty of media professionals?

Accepted Answer

To provide accurate and fair information

Answer

To promote a particular political agenda

Answer

To entertain and amuse the public

Answer

To protect the interests of powerful individuals

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a recommended step in the ethical decision-making process?

Accepted Answer

Making a hasty decision

Answer

Identifying ethical issues

Answer

Gathering relevant information

Answer

Considering possible consequences

Question 7

What is the primary role of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO)?

Accepted Answer

To regulate the print and online media industry

Answer

To advocate for press freedom and protect journalists

Answer

To provide training and support for media professionals

Answer

To censor and control media content

Question 8

Which ethical principle places a primary emphasis on respecting the privacy and self-determination of individuals?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 9

The ______ framework offers a structured method for evaluating ethical dilemmas and making informed decisions in the media context.

Accepted Answer

Ethical Decision-Making Matrix

Answer

Kantian Deontological Ethics

Answer

Utilitarian Consequentialism

Answer

Virtue Ethics

Question 10

Which of the following is not a recognized step in the ethical decision-making process?

Accepted Answer

Rushing to judgment

Answer

Identifying the ethical issue

Answer

Gathering relevant information

Answer

Evaluating potential courses of action

Question 11

The _____ theory suggests that ethical actions are those that promote the greatest overall happiness or well-being.

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Virtue Ethics

Answer

Pragmatism

Question 12

The _____ principle underscores the importance of media professionals being held responsible and accountable for their actions.

Accepted Answer

Transparency

Answer

Accuracy

Answer

Objectivity

Answer

Impartiality

Question 13

What is the primary purpose of an ethical code in a media organization?

Accepted Answer

To establish standards of conduct for employees

Answer

To protect the organization from legal liability

Answer

To enhance the organization's public image

Answer

To restrict creative freedom

Question 14

Which ethical principle states that individuals should treat others as they would want to be treated?

Accepted Answer

The Golden Rule

Answer

The Principle of Beneficence

Answer

The Principle of Non-Maleficence

Answer

The Principle of Autonomy

Question 15

What is a significant benefit of using a decision-making framework in media ethics?

Accepted Answer

Provides a structured and systematic approach to ethical analysis

Answer

Eliminates the need for subjective judgment

Answer

Guarantees a "right" answer in all cases

Answer

Prevents ethical dilemmas from arising

Question 16

Identify the ethical decision-making principle that emphasizes respecting individuals' autonomy to make choices about their lives, even if those choices are not in their best interests.

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 17

Which common ethical dilemma arises when media professionals are faced with a potentially harmful story but must decide whether to publish it in the public interest?

Accepted Answer

Privacy vs. public interest

Answer

Conflict of interest

Answer

Sensationalism

Answer

Objectivity vs. bias

Question 18

Which ethical principle suggests that potential harm caused by media reporting should be carefully considered and minimized?

Accepted Answer

Harm minimization

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT an ethical principle that media professionals should adhere to?

Accepted Answer

Sensationalism

Answer

Truthfulness

Answer

Impartiality

Answer

Respect for privacy

Question 20

Which ethical principle focuses on respecting individuals' privacy and their right to control their personal information?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Justice

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 21

Which ethical framework prioritizes the rights and best interests of individuals?

Accepted Answer

Deontology

Answer

Consequentialism

Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Virtue ethics

Question 22

According to the ethical principle of beneficence, media professionals should:

Accepted Answer

Prioritize actions that maximize benefits and minimize potential harms

Answer

Act solely based on their own moral convictions

Answer

Strictly adhere to established laws and regulations

Answer

Evaluate the long-term consequences of their actions

Question 23

Which of the following factors is NOT relevant when making ethical decisions in media?

Accepted Answer

Personal beliefs of the decision-maker

Answer

Potential legal implications

Answer

Cultural sensitivities

Answer

Audience impact

Question 24

Which of the following is a fundamental aspect of impartiality in media reporting?

Accepted Answer

Presenting all relevant perspectives on an issue in a balanced manner

Answer

Expressing personal opinions and biases in news articles

Answer

Censoring viewpoints that may be offensive or controversial

Answer

Representing marginalized groups inaccurately or stereotypically

Question 25

Which ethical principle emphasizes acting in accordance with one's core values and beliefs?

Accepted Answer

Virtue ethics

Answer

Consequentialism

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Utilitarianism

Question 26

Under the UK's Data Protection Act 2018, which action would violate an individual's privacy?

Accepted Answer

Using personal data without consent

Answer

Publishing a photo taken in a public place

Answer

Reporting on a court case involving confidential details

Answer

Obtaining medical records with a valid warrant

Question 27

In media ethics, 'informed consent' means:

Accepted Answer

Seeking permission before using someone's image or information

Answer

Ensuring the audience fully grasps the potential consequences of a story

Answer

Respecting the privacy of individuals involved in news events

Answer

Avoiding deceptive methods to obtain information

Question 28

The ethical principle of 'harm minimization' involves:

Accepted Answer

Analyzing potential risks and benefits before taking action

Answer

Safeguarding the reputations of individuals and organizations

Answer

Avoiding sensational or inflammatory language

Answer

Ensuring balanced presentation of all perspectives

Question 29

The UK Media Standards Trust offers a free helpline for media professionals to seek ethical advice.

Accepted Answer

True

Answer

False

Question 30

Which of the following is NOT an ethical principle that media professionals should adhere to?

Accepted Answer

Sensationalism

Answer

Accuracy and fairness

Answer

Objectivity and impartiality

Question 31

Which of these is NOT a key ethical principle in media?

Accepted Answer

Sensationalism

Answer

Objectivity

Answer

Accuracy

Answer

Fairness

Question 32

Which of the following is **not** a core ethical principle in media decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Objectivity

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Autonomy

Question 33

Which ethical principle emphasizes an individual's right to make choices without being pressured?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Answer

Justice

Question 34

In media decision-making, which ethical principle is considered fundamental?

Accepted Answer

Objectivity and impartiality

Answer

Sensationalism and profit

Answer

Source protection

Question 35

Which ethical framework emphasizes the consequences of actions and seeks to maximize happiness for the greatest number of people?

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism

Answer

Virtue Ethics

Answer

Casuistry

Answer

Deontology

Question 36

As per the BBC's ethical guidelines, what is the primary responsibility of a media professional?

Accepted Answer

To maintain accuracy, impartiality, and objectivity

Answer

To prioritize audience engagement

Answer

To promote diversity and inclusion

Answer

To safeguard children and vulnerable individuals

Question 37

What is the purpose of conducting a harm-benefit analysis in ethical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

To weigh the potential risks and benefits of different courses of action

Answer

To identify the most popular option

Answer

To justify unethical behavior

Question 38

Which ethical perspective emphasizes the importance of personal character and values in making ethical decisions?

Accepted Answer

Virtue Ethics

Answer

Deontology

Answer

Casuistry

Answer

Utilitarianism

Question 39

How does the media contribute to promoting social justice?

Accepted Answer

By exposing inequality, challenging stereotypes, and amplifying marginalized voices

Answer

By generating profits for shareholders

Answer

By providing entertainment and escapism

Question 40

Which ethical issue is particularly relevant to the use of social media in journalism?

Accepted Answer

Verification of information and potential biases

Answer

Technical limitations

Answer

Lack of regulation

Answer

Cost and accessibility

Question 41

What is the primary function of ethical codes and guidelines in media professions?

Accepted Answer

To establish clear standards and principles for making ethical decisions

Answer

To prevent legal liability

Answer

To restrict creative freedom

Question 42

Which ethical principle mandates media professionals to treat individuals with respect and dignity, irrespective of their differences?

Accepted Answer

Respect for Human Rights

Answer

Freedom of Expression

Answer

Privacy

Answer

Accuracy and Impartiality

Question 43

What is the primary aim of ethical decision-making in media?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that media content is truthful, fair, and responsible

Answer

To avoid negative publicity

Answer

To maximize audience ratings