The Ethics of Immersive Journalism: A rhetorical analysis of news storytelling with virtual reality technology

Authors

  • Hollis Kool Stanford University

Keywords:

virtual reality, news, storytelling, ethics

Abstract

This paper provides background on and raises ethical challenges in regard to virtual reality technology as a journalistic tool. The realistic and empathy-generating nature of 360-degree filmed news story experiences arguably changes the role and responsibilities of both the journalist and the viewer participating in the story. Using Clouds Over Sidra, an award-winning long-form VR documentary as the model for analysis, this paper examines how VR may change cultural communication. The influence and impact this new medium may have are important to examine for its impact on the way that subjects portray, journalists capture, and consumers learn about news. 

 

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Published

2016-06-15

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 3 (2016)

Section

STS and Our Communication

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