Abstract
The Basic Code of Broadcasting Ethics is a code of ethics to be followed uniformly by all
broadcasters in Japan. Currently, NHK and commercial broadcasters provide training to
ensure compliance with broadcasting ethics. However, there is no end to the number of
cases of broadcasting ethics violations, such as the falsification of program information.
When problematic cases occur in broadcasting programs, they are deliberated by a thirdparty
organization, The Broadcasting Ethics and Program Improvement Organization
(hereinafter referred to as “BPO”). The BPO selects cases from complaints and opinions
from viewers about broadcast programs, conducts investigations and deliberations, and
compiles a report if a broadcasting ethics problem is found.
Given the current situation in which broadcasting ethics is not fully functioning as a
profession’s code of ethics, this study explores factors common to cases of broadcasting
ethics violations and clarifies issues by conducting a text-mining analysis of BPO reports.
