Journalism ethics and practice in enclave societies

Since the 19th century, journalists have developed ethical tenets that have drawn upon a credence of democracy, rationalism, and the enlightenment. These ethical tenets relate to justice (social and normative) and utilitarian ideals that address the common good. However, it is unclear whether these Western ethical considerations can be applied to minority and enclave communities, which are grouped within Western-liberal democratic societies. These communities foster alternative and often contradictory values to their surrounding society, yet maintain fervent journalistic institutions. Drawing upon the "multiple ethical perspectives" classification, we posit that enclave journalists enact hybrid forms of ethical concerns and demonstrate an emphasis on communal, professional, and critical facets. Accordingly, our analysis shows that enclave journalists aim to balance their understanding of the concept and role of journalism with their moral teachings and commitment to the enclave's precepts and leaders. Through an exploration of journalists' ethical concerns and dilemmas within enclave societies, we elucidate the outcomes of the cultural encounter between modernity and tradition-inclined societies and shed light on enclave societies' value systems. We recommend a reflective gaze on mainstream journalists' normative practice when reporting on these enclaves and their communications. Finally, we suggest avoiding culturally insensitive moral judgments, and hope our chapter will help journalists from outside the enclave evaluate enclave communications while taking into account their internal schemes and worldviews.