For a photojournalism that respects the human dignity: the ethical dimension as a key issue in contemporaneity

Abstract

This paper proposes to discuss the ethical limits of the use by the press of photos portraying human pain and suffering. The aim is to reflect on the role of photojournalism and respect to human dignity. We compare five documents verifying similarities and differences, and exemplify some discussions with photos chosen by its scope and newsworthiness. The theoretical approach considers authors who address the ethical dimension of journalism, as well as those who research the photojournalism. In our analysis, we verified that there are guidelines for professionals, dedicated to respect for human dignity, but there is still a long way to go for that press media fully accomplishes such social role