The unsettling deaths of American journalists Steven Sotloff and James Foley by members terrorist group, ISIS greatly upset the public a few weeks ago.
The video (WARNING: Graphic Content) posted online revealed the beheading of Steven Sotloff, who lost his life in order to pursue journalism.
With 70 journalists killed worldwide in 2013, and 34 killed so far in 2014, the work of a journalist can sometimes be life threatening.
“It’s extremely chilling to think about the death of the journalists due to ISIS. I think it’s interesting that they chose to behead journalists to send a message to America – as opposed to other representatives of our country who are involved over there. It’s makes me pause and consider the true responsibility of a journalist and how important it is to be aware of what you’re publishing,” Taylor Newstat, a junior journalism major at Temple, said.
Other students studying journalism acknowledge the potential dangers facing journalists.
“Dying for journalism is extremely brave and honorable, but is also horribly unfortunate and upsetting. They demonstrated true bravery and dedication by even putting themselves in a situation where death could happen,” Emily Pentz, a freshman journalism major at Temple, stated.
“As journalists, we must gather the truth, whether that regards our own nation or others, and we seek out accurate facts. I’m not completely familiar with how the two journalists were captured and it could be their fault, however, the issue still remains problematic. More action should have been taken by our government to try and retrieve the journalists or in the entire prevention of an incident like it,” said sophomore journalism major, Sarah Sweigart.
Although the killing of these journalists was quite tragic and saddened many Americans, those with an appetite for journalism will continue to follow their passion.
“There is a responsibility to be aware of the world and the events that occur in it and I love that journalists are the ones who bring information to the people. It has taught me to not only become a better writer but to become a better, more aware citizen,” Newstat explained.
Many journalists have possessed the desire to report from a young age.
“I have always had a strong interest in writing and always felt deeply affected by news and current events. I am motivated by the truth and the need for unbiased journalism,” Pentz said. “A lot of news is not delivered without bias and I don’t think that’s right. All I want to do is become a credible and truthful journalist.”
Regardless of the drawbacks to journalism, it’s still an important and essential field.
“Stories, of any kind, keep motivating me. As I become a better journalist, I want to travel and engage with other cultures. I’ll admit, the recently presented dangers are intimidating, but there are still stories out there that need to be told,” Sweigart said. “My passion for writing and communicating with people keep me going and dedicated. Simple: without people, there would be no journalism.”