The Cuomo Controversy: Does Ethics of Care Outweight Journalism Integrity?
While global pandemics are not a new thing, it is, however, in the 21st century. Covid-19 has impacted regions of the world such as America and Canada, that have been considered safe and potentially immune to pandemics. Unfortunately, America has been one of the hardest-hit countries with over 8.3 million cases and 222,000 dead as of October 20th, 2020 (Miller & Wu, 2020). Millions of people are unable to cope with increase lockdown measures. How the media has downplayed the virus's impact and conflicting government reports has led to mistrust in the public health system (Casey, 2020). This has led to multiple anti-mask protests and people not wanting to social distance because they do not believe in the virus's severity.
In the early stages of the pandemic, CNN reporter Chris Cuomo had tested positive for Covid-19. Even though he had the virus, Cuomo decided to continue his show Cuomo Prime Time at home as he self-isolated. His older brother, Governor of New York (one of the hardest-hit states), Andrew Cuomo, frequently joined him on his show to discuss many political issues and the effects of Covid-19. The duo had much fun, and playful banter that viewers can relate to, as arguing with family members is a shared experience. At the same time, informing the public of the dangers of Covid-19. Through this, Chris Cuomo was able to show millions of people that yes, Covid-19 is a virus that must be taken seriously. That the symptoms are real and are not only reserved for the elderly. However, many have criticized the pair as having a close relationship with the source jeopardizes journalism codes of ethics.
There have been many incidences where reporters and correspondents have been heavily criticized for working with sources they have close relations with (Lauricella, 2020). The Cuomo brothers are no expectation as they once had to face questioning regarding their journalistic integrity in a 2013 train derailment that led to the death of 6 people (Lauricella, 2020). People’s concerns about whether or not their relationship can maintain objectivity for viewers is warranted. However, this situation is different. The Cuomo brothers were able to spread awareness about Covid-19 by letting audiences into their relationship as brothers; it did not erode the message. If the circumstances were different, this would have absolutely been unethical journalism. However, given the current climate, Chris and Andrew Cuomo are caring for their audience as they find unique ways of delivering the message of the severity of Covid-19.
To care for someone means to empathize with that person (Pech & Leibel, 2006). Ethics of care can outweigh ethics within journalism, especially when it regards human life. Many governments have chosen to downplay the severity of Covid-19 at the beginning of the pandemic, which resulted in the death of millions. The Cuomo brothers did what they can to make people feel less alone and isolated in times of uncertainty. They raised awareness for “self-isolation, social distancing, and important public health messages” (Lauricella, 2020). This situation is different than a journalist simply interviewing his brother, who so happens to be the Governor, about politics. People’s lives are more important than journalist inquiry and ethics. The world has a major health crisis, and delivering the message of social distance and proper health care measures should be the main priority.
Citations
Casey, L. (2020, October 07). Ontario’s mixed messaging on coronavirus is leading to distrust in province, experts say. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://globalnews.ca/news/7381339/ontario-mixed-covid-19-messaging-coronavirus/
Lauricella, S. (2020, May 26). Pandemic prime time for the Cuomo brothers: Ethics, objectivity, and relationships in journalism. Media Ethics Initiative. https://mediaengagement.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/80-Brothers-in-News-Case-Study.pdf
Miller, S., & Wu, J. (2020, October 18). Coronavirus in the U.S.: Map of how many cases have been confirmed across the country, by state. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/coronavirus-u-s-map-where-virus-has-been-confirmed-across-n1124546
Pech, G., & Leibel, R (2006). Writing in solidarity: Steps toward an ethic of care for journalism. Journal of Mass Media Ethics, 21(2–3), 141–155. https://doi.org/10.1080/08900523.2006.9679730
