Assignment: Read Nora Ephron's The Boston Photographs, reprinted in Chris Anderson and Lex Runciman, eds., Open Questions; Readings for Critical Thinking and Writing (Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2005).

These photographs were first published were first published on June 22, 1975. The decision to publish proved provocative: beyond the initial response to publication, and over the course of thirty years, this editorial decision has become a case for debate in studies in ethics. Some argued that this was only “cheap sensationalism” or voyeurism; others now argue that this is a more serious ethical violation using the term “revictimization” in terms of the subjects of the photograph and the dynamic involved in viewing the photograph, however casually. Others argued that publication was a responsible record of an actual event, or simply that the photograph was of such exceptional quality that it deserved publication.

In a clear and concise argument, and using evidence drawn from Nora Ephron’s essay, address the decision to publish this photograph: should it have been published?

Please remember to title your essay, and include your name in the text box provided for the essay on the online form.