The SPJ code of ethics[1] states that journalists should (because the "highest and primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public"): – Refuse

The SPJ code of ethics[1] states that journalists should (because the "highest and primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public"): – Refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel and special treatment, and avoid political and other outside activities that may compromise integrity or impartiality, or may damage credibility. – Deny favored treatment to advertisers, donors or any other special interests, and resist internal and external pressure to influence coverage. – Explain ethical choices and processes to audiences. Encourage a civil dialogue with the public about journalistic practices, coverage and news content. – Expose unethical conduct in journalism, including within their organizations. . TechCrunch said in 2008 that they will break every embargo they agree to.[2] Edit: they later (2011, 2012) backed down from that pledge. See CobrastanJorji's comment below (thank you!) . The Society of American Business Editors and Writers argue that they are useful to keep the standard of journalism high, but that "journalists are ultimately responsible to the public."[3] . And just for fun, and to make matters more concrete, here's a Slate article in which an example (an article published by the WaPo) is raised that calls the embargo system into question.[4] . [1]: http://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp http://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp [2]: https://techcrunch.com/2008/12/17/death-to-the-embargo/ https://techcrunch.com/2008/12/17/death-to-the-embargo/ [3]: https://sabew.org/2012/05/the-embargo-and-business-journalists/ https://sabew.org/2012/05/the-embargo-and-business-journalis... [4]: http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/press_box/2007/11/breaking_news_not_transcribing_it.html http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/press_box/20... I hope this can help answer your question.