Distinguished Lecture Series Talk by David Schlesinger, Chairman of Thomson Reuters China

Mr. David Schlesinger, Chairman of Thomson Reuters China, was invited by the School to give a lecture on “Global Media – Speed, Standards and Ethics – What Actually Makes A Journalist?” at The Chinese University of Hong Kong on February 14, 2012.

Mr. Schlesinger graduated from Oberlin College and has a Master’s degree with an emphasis on Chinese politics studies at Harvard University. Mr. Schlesinger has worked for Reuters for 25 year, starting from a correspondent to the Chairman of Thomson Reuters China, now leading a total of 3,000 editorial staff in text, television, and pictures strategically and operationally.

In the lecture, Mr. Schlesinger clarified the definition and responsibility of journalists in the global context and with challenges from social media. With great emphasis on accuracy and credibility, Mr. Schlesinger shared his career experience as a professional journalist. He mentioned the “Fundamental Ten” ethics and principles of Reuters, and he believes that it should be the morals and discipline which distinguish professional journalists from the amateurs. Despite the stiff competition in- and outside the media circle, Mr. Schlesinger hopes future journalists would be willing to help the public and make society more transparent. After the lecture, there was a very active and informative exchange among students, teachers and Mr. Schlesinger.

Prof. David Wong (right) introduced the distinguished
speaker, Mr. David Schlesinger (left).

David explained how to distinguish professional
journalists from the amateurs.

In the Q&A session, students raised a lot of questions.

Prof. Joseph Chan (right) presented a souvenir to David.