Stoicism and Courage as Journalistic Values: What Early Journalism Textbooks Taught About Newsroom Ethos

Abstract

Discussion of a “newsroom ethos” that may direct journalists into harm’s way and also impede their ability to receive help in coping with the after-effects of their work experiences has become more common as researchers have focused on the mental-health risks faced by reporters and photographers. Journalism textbooks covering a period from 1913–78 were found to have encouraged detachment and discouraged the displaying of emotions in what was depicted as a macho profession. Aspiring journalists were taught that courage was an important attribute because taking risks was part of the job and that some of the most influential journalists had died heroic deaths in their pursuit of the truth. Textbook writers helped developed a true mythology around journalists, one replete with heroes and legends.