Religious Ethics of Justice and Fairness Perspective on Media Ethics –Implication on Media Practice

Abstract

This paper discusses the centrality of religious ethics to media ethics, practice and theory. The moral ethical codes of the Judeo-Christian faith, Islamic faith and African Traditional Religion of Ifa Oracle establish the units of analysis upon which this discuss is anchored. The ten commandments of the Judeo-Christian faith, Islamic faith, and the sixteen commandments of the Ifa Oracle are assessed; identifying specific aspects which lay emphasis on justice and fairness, and it is compared with the ethical code of journalism. The paper concludes on the note that religious ethics provides the moral compass for both personal and professional conduct, emphasizing fairness, justice and honesty in social interaction and relations. It also enables objectivity as the media fulfills its social responsibility function. Key words: Religious ethics, Media ethics, Judeo-Christian faith, Islamic Faith, Ifa Oracle