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Ethics in Media

Citizen Journalism

What are the issues we face when we get our news from ordinary citizens?Can regular people produce quality journalism with just an internet connection and an opinion? 

Looking for Social Justice in STAR WARS

By MIZ MANNERS, THE SLEDGEHAMMER OF BLOGS

We can't deny the impact that the Star Wars films have had on our culture. It formed a foundation for much popular entertainment for generations. I'm here to rock the foundation.

After re-watching the films recently, I have determined that the racist, sexist galaxy that they live in is nowhere I want to be.

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GIL SCOTT-HERON: What Should We Expect from our Artists?

By BARCODE 2x

Gil Scott-Heron's new record I'm New Here arrived this year with a lot of expectations on it. The poet/singer/songwriter of The Revolution Will Not Be Televised had not recorded in nearly two decades, had done time in prison, had struggled with addiction, and the sudden return of this beloved artist was eagerly awaited by fans.

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Immoral Art

Is there such a thing as moral or immoral art? Give examples!

Corey Haim and the Dangerous Culture of Fame

By BARCODE 2x

38-year-old actor Corey Haim was found dead this morning of accidental overdose in his home in Los Angeles. The child star of Lucas and The Lost Boys, Haim was a comical, quircky, endearing performer. After years of struggle with drug addiction, the circumstances of his death are all too-familiar.

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The Beatles or the Stones?

Most people are either Beatles fans or Rolling Stones fans. For some, it's about more than just the music. It's a personality issue, and a lifestyle issue. Which band do you prefer, and why?

Ethics in Art: MASHUP

By BARTON BUND

Mashup is a crude name for a controversial art form. This collage of previously created work into a new and different form altogether has been getting more and more attention lately. There are great examples like mashup artist Girl Talk, who creates entire records made up of samples of other artists. There have been innovative mashups like The Grey Album, Danger Mouse's combination of Jay Z's Black Album and the Beatles' White Album. Is it art? Well yes, of course it is.

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Is there an appropriate place for ads about abortion?

CBS plans to play an anti-abortion advertisement during the Superbowl. Many argue it's not the right place and time. But is there an appropriate place for it anywhere on TV? Would it be appropriate during any major network broadcast?

What is an Artist's Responsibility?

By BARTON BUND

Art is ultimately unprofitable. It is a lousy investment. Artists and organizations tend to do better while they are in their flux state, an inspirational state. The condition of being inspired can be momentary or lifelong, and by nature, people in this state are irrational and impractical. Art is frivolous. And yet, art can flourish in times of adversity.

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Flashing Tiger, Hidden Rules

By Mz. MANNERS, OUT OF REHAB AND BACK ON THE CASE

It is a great moment for protecting media content. Annie Leibovitz has imposed fascinating and bold restrictions upon her images of a stripped-down Tiger Woods.

The Vanity Fair cover images, shot three years ago, as part of a very Vanity-Fair type of article, can be shown on television with the following criteria:

Leibovitz's rules, as given in an email:

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