I think this incident can be addressed constructively in part by
fleshing out the privacy provisions of BLP. Right now Wikipedia has a
more elaborate privacy policy for Wikipedia editors than it does for
people who happen to be the topic of articles. BLP mostly seems to
focus on neutrality, verifiability and no original research. Some
additional privacy clauses might include:
(1) No publishing of personal contact information such as address or
a phone number if there is any objection by the person profiled.
(2) A presumption against publishing articles on people who have been
victims of stalking, in cases where publication of an article on
Wikipedia might subject them to additional harassment.
(3) A non-absolute presumption against publishing articles on minors.
By "non-absolute" I mean that this should be interpreted as one
factor but not the only factor in determining whether an article
should be published.
The code of ethics of the Society of Professional Journalists has
some provisions that might adapted for Wikipedia's purposes:
Minimize Harm
Ethical journalists treat sources, subjects and colleagues as human
beings deserving of respect.
Journalists should:
— Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by
news coverage. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children
and inexperienced sources or subjects.
— Be sensitive when seeking or using interviews or photographs
of those affected by tragedy or grief.
— Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause
harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for
arrogance.
— Recognize that private people have a greater right to control
information about themselves than do public officials and others
who seek power, influence or attention. Only an overriding public
need can justify intrusion into anyone’s privacy.
— Show good taste. Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity.
— Be cautious about identifying juvenile suspects or victims of
sex crimes.
— Be judicious about naming criminal suspects before the formal
filing of charges.
— Balance a criminal suspect’s fair trial rights with the
public’s right to be informed.
--------------------------------
| Sheldon Rampton
| Research director, Center for Media & Democracy (
www.prwatch.org)
| Author of books including:
| Friends In Deed: The Story of US-Nicaragua Sister Cities
| Toxic Sludge Is Good For You
| Mad Cow USA
| Trust Us, We're Experts
| Weapons of Mass Deception
| Banana Republicans
| The Best War Ever
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