It's Ethics Week's 13th anniversary and the Society of Professional Journalists is celebrating its newly revised Code of Ethics, focusing on the theme "Minimize Harm." Here's what the Code says about minimizing harm:

Ethical journalism treats sources, subjects, colleagues and members of the public as human beings deserving of respect. Journalists should:

- Balance the public's need for information against potential harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for arrogance or undue intrusiveness.

- Show compassion for those who may be affected by news coverage. Use heightened sensitivity when dealing with juveniles, victims of sex crimes, and sources or subjects who are inexperienced or unable to give consent. Consider cultural differences in approach and treatment.

- Recognize that legal access to information differs from an ethical justification to publish or broadcast.

- Realize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than public figures and others who seek power, influence or attention. Weigh the consequences of publishing or broadcasting personal information.

- Avoid pandering to lurid curiosity, even if others do.

- Balance a suspect's right to a fair trial with the public's right to know. Consider the implications of identifying criminal suspects before they face legal charges.

- Consider the long-term implications of the extended reach and permanence of publication. Provide updated and more complete information as appropriate.

Sigma Delta Chi's first Code of Ethics was borrowed from the American Society of Newspaper Editors in 1926. In 1973, Sigma Delta Chi (which later became SPJ) wrote its own code, which was revised in 1984, 1987, 1996 and 2014.