ABSTRACT

CSJ-12-0042.0 This case looks at the differences between online and mainstream media to ask whether different editorial guidelines apply to the different platforms, and to question whether rules have changed. In September 2010, the editor for the online blog Deadspin , A.J. Daulerio, faced a decision. Should he pay for and publish graphic photos that famed Quarterback Brett Favre had allegedly sent to reporter Jenn Sterger? The Deadspin legal counselor had concerns. Sterger herself had refused to provide the photos. Daulerio had already published the story about the photos and associated text messages. What did the photos add?

Use this case to stimulate discussion among students about the ethics of paying for news photos and information, whether and how journalism has changed in the Internet age, and the relationship of news organizations to sources. Students should consider whether Deadspin , which is part of the Gawker group of websites, is a journalism site or something else. If it practices journalism, what if any differences are there in how it does business? Is sports journalism different in some way from other reporting? Does Daulerio treat Sterger, a victim of sexual harassment, responsibly?  What are the pros and cons of paying for news; is doing so even worth debate? What about the role of economics, and increasing website traffic, in making editorial decisions?

Students can debate the rules of online versus traditional media, and whether they are different. They could also discuss how online versus traditional media treat victims of sexual or other harassment, and whether different rules apply there. Finally, they can consider the history of sports reporting and whether Deadspin is the natural heir of pathbreaking sports journalists of the 1960s.

The case is suitable for classes about journalism ethics, sports reporting, or digital journalism.