Senior Secondary (HKDSE) · Ethics and Religious Studies

Media Ethics: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 2 written questions with worked solutions. All on Media Ethics.

7 questions12 marksFree, no account
Question 1
1 mark

According to the Code of ethics and professionalism in Media Ethics, when a news outlet decides not to publish the private medical details of a public official that have no impact on their public duties, the outlet is primarily respecting:

Question 2
1 mark

A reputable news organization obtains anonymously leaked private medical records of a high-ranking government official. These records allegedly indicate a health condition that could significantly impact the official's capacity to perform their public duties. However, the authenticity of the records is difficult to verify independently, and their immediate publication would likely result in severe personal distress for the official and their family, potentially inciting widespread public speculation or an 'online public trial'.

Considering the principles of Media Ethics, particularly concerning "freedom of speech and editorial independence" and "professional conduct in the mass media," which of the following ethical approaches is most appropriate for the news organization?

Question 3
1 mark

A news application utilizes 'clickbait' headlines that intentionally exaggerate the side effects of a new medication to increase user engagement and ad revenue, which subsequently causes a public health panic. According to the 'Code of Ethics and Professionalism,' this action is a failure of the media's mission to:

Question 4
1 mark

A government mandates that all news outlets must obtain approval from a central 'Harmony Committee' before reporting on widespread industrial strikes, claiming it is necessary to prevent 'social unrest' and 'emotive provocation.' From the perspective of Media Ethics, this policy is an example of ______ that prioritizes ______ over ______.

Question 5
1 mark

A social media platform is pressured by a government to remove posts that criticize its policies, arguing the posts could incite social unrest. Simultaneously, privacy advocates argue against the platform collecting user data for targeted advertising, citing individual rights. Which ethical dilemma arises when the platform attempts to balance these competing demands?

Question 6
3 marks

What is the fundamental right of a person that legitimizes the role of the mass media in modern society, according to Media Ethics?

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

Question 7
4 marks

The mass media plays a crucial role in modern society by transmitting information and facilitating public communication. However, this role comes with significant ethical responsibilities, especially regarding the integrity of information presented.


(a) Define the concept of editorial independence and briefly explain why it is vital for the media to promote justice and accountability.

(b) Identify two specific dangers to society posed by the dissemination of misleading information or fake news through new media platforms, referencing their potential impact on rational thinking and social stability.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

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