Analyzing Purpose

1. Ultimately I'd like for the argument's readers to examine the wisdom of maligning someone's character in a public setting. So many of us assume that we know what is behind the actions of others, even people we don't and never will know. Acting on these assumptions will often result in conflict. Good photojournalism gives information along with the sometimes shocking images it shows. The photo only tells part of the story, as one of my research articles states. This is absolutely correct; photographs, like words, must be taken in context, and background information is crucial to making informed decisions.
Another goal is to rally support for photojournalism, not just the ethics of it, but for the profession as a whole. As internet news sites and the ratings-driven 24 hour news cycle have become mainstream, the discipline has become watered-down infotainment. There are many crucial issues that the public has an interest in knowing for their own well-being. With the work of experienced and educated photojournalists being read alongside what looks like journalism, but is actually opinion, the public knowledge of these issues has decreased. A well-informed populace, in a democracy, will make decisions based on the interests of the society in which they live. There can be no such populace without effective photojournalism.

2. Plausible actions/reactions
More awareness on the subject of photojournalism
Forwarding the knowledge with others
Some assumptions challenged
Some increased empathy for photojournalists

Not plausible
Basic change in values/opinions
Reform
All-around support of the profession

3. More awareness - possible effect
Might accomplish a desire to know more.
The actions the public might take are reading more on the subject, blogging about it, and asking for other points to view to get a well rounded working knowledge of it.
Adopt a supportive stance for the field.

4. Students and educators of photojournalism have a vested interest in supporting a more knowledgeable approach to the stories and images they publish; demand for objectivity will sustain the field. People who are connected to those working in the field, especially family members, professional networks, and other members of the press are potential advocates for the field and its professionals. People just breaking in to the field will be able to introduce the concepts first-hand. Writers/bloggers will be able to bring awareness to their audiences. Finally, aid volunteers often work in the same locations as photojournalists, and so support and knowledge of what they do assures a better relationship between the two.