A Blog Code of Ethics

By Ian, on November 28th, 2006

Update:

Toulmin was apparently quoted out of context in the original story and the BBC has changed their story to show a more balanced opinion.

The Press Complaints Commission director Tim Toulmin thinks blogs should be covered by a voluntary code of practice like that for UK newspapers. The BBC reports that he made the remarks during a session on free speech at a London race conference today.

[On blogs and other internet sites] “there are no professional standards, there is no means of redress”, Mr Toulmin said.
He added: “If you want to see how the newspaper industry would look like if it was unchecked, then look at the internet.”
He said a voluntary code of practice would allow content to be checked without government involvement, stressing: “We’re not in favour of regulating the internet. The flow of information should not by regulated by any government.”
Former Downing Street spin doctor Alastair Campbell, who chaired the session organised by the Commission for Racial Equality, said blogs were “perceived as a positive development” but added that “some of the most offensive stuff” comes from them.

Bananas. I really don’t understand the point of a voluntary code of practice in this environment. Only people who think carefully about the ethics of what they’re doing are going to bother signing up. The way it’s been explained to me vis-a-vis newspapers is that it makes it less likely that there will be a compulsory code of practice. But that’s only if it works. When you’re dealing with a dozen or so large institutions, like UK newspapers, then it’s reasonably likely to. When you’re dealing with 57mn bloggers, many of whom are barking mad, then I’m not so sanguine, to say the least.

I also find it pretty depressing that such senior political figures are so benighted about the incredible thought, creativity and artistic endeavour I find every day.