Ethics Policy

2paragraphs works to publish news coverage free from bias, political affiliation, and misinformation. We have a lean, closely-integrated editorial team and while we cover chiefly light material in the entertainment world, we nonetheless hold ourselves to a high ethical standard: Our goal is to inform our readers and to deliver accurate information.

At 2paragraphs, we value transparency, accurate sourcing, and integrity in the news and information we produce and amplify. These principles are paramount to our practice, and our ethics are in accordance with those clearly articulated in the Code of Ethics embraced by the Society of Professional Journalists.

Code of Ethics

“Ethical journalism,” the SPJ writes, “should be accurate and fair. Journalists should be honest in gathering, reporting and interpreting information.”

2paragraphs believes strongly in these principles. Below is a list of journalistic practices articulated by the SPJ which are most important and relevant to 2paragraphs, and which aptly represent our ethical standards:

Take responsibility for the accuracy of their work. Verify information before releasing it. Use original sources whenever possible.
Provide context. Take special care not to misrepresent or oversimplify in promoting, previewing or summarizing a story.
Identify sources clearly. The public is entitled to as much information as possible.
Support the open and civil exchange of views, even views they find repugnant.
Provide access to source material when it is relevant and appropriate.
Tell the story of the diversity and magnitude of the human experience.
Avoid stereotyping. Journalists should examine the ways their values and experiences may shape their reporting.
Realize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than public figures and others who seek power, influence or attention.
Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. Disclose unavoidable conflicts.
Deny favored treatment to advertisers, donors or any other special interests, and resist internal and external pressure to influence coverage.
Distinguish news from advertising and shun hybrids that blur the lines between the two. Prominently label sponsored content.
Respond quickly to questions about accuracy, clarity and fairness
Acknowledge mistakes and correct them promptly and prominently. Explain corrections and clarifications carefully and clearly.
Be easy to contact.