Professionalism in the Media World?

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Abstract
The present situation of journalism is interpreted in relation to a background of historical developments and social structures. Today, journalists play a key role especially in public conflicts. Comparing the legal foundations and editorial structures of journalism in liberal democracies, differences can be found. Differences in professional standards and role interpretations also exist. These differences modify the impact of personal opinions on reporting in the various countries. Besides some similarities between journalism and the professions, there are also important differences, especially in modes of ethical orientation and the degree of selectivity allowed when relating current to previous judgements and taking account of the consequences of one's behaviour.