Virtue in media: The moral psychology of U.S. exemplars in news and public relations

This study contributes to an empirical basis for media ethics theorizing by constructing a moral psychology profile of exemplars in journalism and public relations. Drawing on theories and instruments from psychology, this inductive project assesses descriptive and inferential patterns of personality traits, moral-reasoning skills, ethical ideology, and perceived workplace ethical climate among twenty-four exemplars selected for professional and ethical leadership qualities. The emerging profile suggests clear "clustering" of personality traits and an overarching emphasis on notions of care and respect for others, professional duty, concern for harm, and proactive social engagement-all of which characterize higher stages of moral development.