Why transparency trumps ‘impartiality’

I was watching an interesting discussion between @davelee and @DJBentley on Twitter around transparency in journalism. Daniel Bentley wrote a piece declaring his political and religious credentials in the interests of transparency, so his readers can make a more informed judgement of what he writes and how he writes it.

It’s about trust. I believe objectivity and impartiality are at worst myths and at best out-dated.

By declaring how you have voted or your political leanings, a reader knows from what perspective you’re writing your articles. This will create trust — or even distrust — of your work. The point is that nothing is hidden and the reader is empowered to make a more informed judgement on your writings.

Openly declaring your political leanings can make you more accountable not only to your readership, but yourself. Writing under a supposed cloak of objectivity means you could be passing on political opinions and influencing voters who think you’re impartial. It’s deceitful to write politically natured articles for your audience without declaring your politics.

There’s not the temptation to slip something politically motivated into your work so it influences people, but under the radar. Subversive propaganda is perpetuated by undeclared interests.

The one thing that a journalist should rigidly stick to is remaining partyless. Joining and participating in a political party carries with it the party-political dogma and often blind allegiance. Daniel Bentley puts it brilliantly in his declarations:

I am not, nor do I ever intend to be, a member of any political party. I am a pragmatist. Any party can win my vote based on their manifesto and whether I trust them.

Dave Lee tweeted “It’s that information which can completely demolish your credibility as a journalist.” about the information Daniel had published. I’d argue it’s quite the opposite.

Who’s the more credible journalist? One who is honest with their readers about their political leanings, or one who isn’t?