Opinion
 

Staff Editorial

                            Bridget Brown    Matthew Dulin 
Geronimo Rodriguez      Keenan Singleton     Lisa Street

'I'm mad as hell ... '

What ever happened to ethics?

Amid the aftermath of the Jayson Blair scandal, it might not be wise for media networks to draw more questionable attention to itself by pitching a tent outside rescued soldier Jessica Lynchi s quarters with a handful of goodies. But they have, and some are prepped with book offers, movie deals and a chock full of other sweets to nab what they refer to as "the get."

According to a New York Times report, CBS News has pulled out all the stops to make certain another network doesnit get the green light.

The network, owned by Viacom, has offered numerous deals to interview Pfc. Lynch, including that from MTV, Simon & Schuster and other Viacom divisions, the Times reported Monday.

For obvious reasons, the network that grabs this exclusive interview will find a hole in its roof when its ratings skyrocket. But how far is too far when trying to seal what will be the first live interview with the 20-year-old soldier?

This is just as unethical as paying for the interview. For those who think the sweetest deal deserves the shot, think about how this would affect journalistis attempts to get the scoop. The insider will no longer be the reporter who does the legwork to get the big story, but it will be the media magnate with the most toys.

Of course, itis up to Lynch as to who will be allowed to interview her. Maybe the best course of action would be to let nobody in and let real journalists hunt down what has become the story of the year.

And in all honestly, to have Pfc. Lynchis story told in three different forms, topped with guest spot on MTVis <I>Total Request Live<P>, isnit as appealing as it sounds.

But all this goes back to getting the first interview — the exclusive.

Once Lynchis image hits the air ­ with the world aware this wonit be the last time to hear the story firsthand ­ her story will become yesterdayis news.

If these tactics continue, a lack of viewers will spell DOA for media journalism at a time where journalism in general is searching for way to get some TLC from the world.

But this is a POW weire talking about. Isnit that worth more than ethics?

The way it looks, this is the very question some networks are struggling with. Finding the answer shouldnit be too hard ­ just think about whatis right for news.
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