Empathetic Objectivity: A Strategy for Journalists

Summary

In the video, journalist Ari Goldman discusses the concept of 'Empathetic Objectivity,' a strategy for understanding and portraying the lives of others with sensitivity and insight. Drawing from his experiences and the work of notable journalists like Isabel Wilkerson, Goldman emphasizes the importance of empathy in journalism, especially when covering complex topics such as religion. He outlines a method that includes understanding cultural symbols, crossing experiential thresholds, and the practice of bracketing to maintain one's perspective. Ultimately, Goldman argues that empathetic objectivity can help rebuild trust between journalists and the communities they serve.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ari Goldman introduces 'Empathetic Objectivity' as a crucial strategy for journalists to connect with subjects whose experiences differ from their own.
• 📖 Goldman highlights his background as an author, journalist, and educator, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse perspectives.
• 📰 The concept of Empathetic Objectivity challenges the traditional notion of journalistic objectivity, particularly in sensitive subjects like religion.
• 👩‍👦 Goldman references Isabel Wilkerson's article about a Chicago mother to illustrate how empathy reveals the deeper context of people's actions.
• 💬 Empathy is essential in journalism as it helps bridge the gap between radically different perspectives in a polarized society.
• 🕊️ Understanding symbols and cultural rituals is a fundamental step in achieving empathetic objectivity in reporting.
• 📊 Goldman uses the example of the Catholic Sacrament of Communion to differentiate between objective and empathetic reporting.
• 🔑 The practice of 'bracketing' allows journalists to maintain their beliefs while accurately portraying the perspectives of others.
• 🚫 Empathetic Objectivity does not require condoning harmful beliefs or practices, allowing for critical evaluation of actions.
• 🤝 Practicing Empathetic Objectivity helps journalists rebuild trust with communities, fostering better representation and understanding.

Q & A

What is 'Empathetic Objectivity'?

Empathetic Objectivity is a strategy employed by journalists to write about others with insight, awareness, and sensitivity. It involves understanding the perspectives of those being written about while maintaining the journalist's own beliefs.

Who is Ari Goldman?

Ari Goldman is an author, journalist, and journalism teacher with extensive experience, having written over 1,000 articles for major publications and taught hundreds of students. He is also a former staff reporter for the New York Times.

How does Ari Goldman relate Empathetic Objectivity to journalism?

Goldman connects Empathetic Objectivity to journalism by emphasizing the importance of understanding the subjective experiences of people, especially in complex topics like religion, while remaining aware of one's own beliefs.

What example does Goldman use to illustrate Empathetic Objectivity?

Goldman cites an article by Isabel Wilkerson, which describes a mother in a dangerous neighborhood who sprays her children with a special oil for protection. This example illustrates how empathy can deepen understanding beyond objective facts.

What are the challenges of objectivity in journalism, according to Goldman?

Goldman notes that in today's media landscape, characterized by misinformation and polarized views, maintaining objectivity is challenging, and it raises questions about how well journalists can tell the stories of others.

How does Goldman describe the role of empathy in understanding religion?

He states that empathy is crucial for understanding religious experiences, as religion involves emotions and beliefs that go beyond objective facts. Empathy allows journalists to grasp the essence of religious practices.

What are the steps outlined by Professor Dale Cannon for achieving Empathetic Objectivity?

Cannon suggests understanding symbols, crossing thresholds into the experiences of others, and employing the practice of bracketing—recognizing one's own beliefs while engaging with different perspectives.

What does 'bracketing' mean in the context of Empathetic Objectivity?

Bracketing involves being aware of one's own beliefs and perspectives while relating to the experiences of others. It allows for mutual recognition and understanding without necessarily adopting the beliefs of those being observed.

What are some potential limitations of Empathetic Objectivity?

While Empathetic Objectivity helps journalists see from other perspectives, it doesn't provide tools to critique harmful practices or actions, such as violence or extremism. It aims to navigate gray areas without condoning negative behaviors.

What is the ultimate goal of employing Empathetic Objectivity in journalism?

The goal is to tell stories in a way that makes subjects feel seen, heard, and understood, thereby rebuilding trust with communities and readers, even if they might not agree with the content.