Bias busters?
This week, an online product called SpinSpotter (http://venturebeat.com/2008/09/09/demo08fall-spinspotter-aims-to-clear-up-media-bias/) was launched in an attempt to find and eliminate bias in journalism. In a "wiki" style, readers will critique published stories and suggest changes. SpinSpotter has created rules for combatting what it calls the "Seven Deadly Spins." I was concerned when I saw the SPJ Code of Ethics connected to these "rules," but there's nothing to indicate that the use of the code is anything more than a guide to ethical concepts. (SPJ opposes efforts to turn the code into "law" or a required standard.) I don't know if SpinSpotter will be just angry chatter like some online forums, but I support the concept of a renewed focus on ethical journalism.