Writing Ethics & Coke

During our class session on Monday, we discussed various topics we've covered throughout this semester. During that discussion, we divided into different teams and picked out five commandments that we deem crucial in ethical online writing. Some moral values listed included citing sources, writing appropriately for different platforms, respecting other perspectives, and using proper grammar. The ethical matter I stand by the most is writing appropriately for different platforms and formatting any media attached to be as accessible to its consumers as possible.

Furthermore, we discussed a few questions Dr. Hope chose, including "What are the ethics of balancing your personal brand as an online writer and creating content that others will engage with?" I answered that we can do both effectively by utilizing trendy platforms or formats (reels, stories, etc.) while staying true to the information and personality that reflects who we are. This allows us to share what we want while keeping our presentation of that information accessible and relevant to the needs and tastes of our audience.

A prime example of my opinion on balancing a personal brand while creating content for others to engage in is how companies promote themselves on social media. With the creation of social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, companies have shifted from the need to have high-budget TV ads to posting photos and videos to their social media accounts instead. While they continue changing their marketing looks, they’re not distancing themselves from their original brand.

Below is a newspaper ad and Instagram feed for Coca-Cola. This is a prime example of a well-known company shifting its presentation style while staying true to who they are.