滚石杂志事件评论

The aftermath of the failed report

Although the event of the Rolling Stone’s failure in its report of a rape on campus has past, the aftermath, believe it or not, only just start. The failed report, on one hand, exposed the news media’s deadly weakness, indicating that occupational ethics and social ethos face severe challenges; on the other hand, the report also implies that the supervisory system and law punishment should be improved.

First of all, the report exposed the dropping career ethics. Beyond any doubt, the journalist, Sabrina Rubin Erdely, goes after fame and profit. The shocking news would promote her reputation and brings economic benefits. This drove her interviewed the so-called victim and then sent the report to the editor without any further research. As aforesaid, since the report would bring economic benefits, the editor allowed it published without doubt it, too. They ignored their career ethics, pursuing profits, leading the report finally became a nationwide event.

Besides the occupational ethics, the report also damaged the social ethos. When the report came out, many public felt unsafe. For a long time, American are proud of their superior living environment, but recent series events has been destroying their dreams. The report became the final straw, completely damaged their sense of security, which was hard to build since the 911. What’s more, the report opened an evil door for those bully, setting a wicked example and model for the young.

Apart from the damage to the social ethos, the report also revealed the weakness of supervisory system and law punishment. Had the supervisory system come into play, the report would not have been punished, leading the irretrievable damage to the whole nation. In addition, after the Columbia University made clear the truth, the journalist and the editor only apologized to public without receiving any punishment. This confused and puzzled people, giving an impression to worldwide people that America is a heaven place to rich where the rich or the powerful could do everything even the wrongs as long as they have money. This impression is even more fatal than the damage because it will, in some extent, keep talents from entering America, which is substantial to American development.

In a word, the report revealed many American problems. If America wants to sustain its status, providing a better environment to its people, she has to deal with these problems. Otherwise, similar event will happen again. Perhaps, the next disaster is gestating now.