Opinion: Is True Crime Ethical?

The popularity of true crime media is undeniable, with fans diving into documentaries, podcasts, and articles about real-life cases. True crime gives us insight into criminal psychology, police work, and sometimes even social justice issues. However, the ethics behind turning tragedies into entertainment is a debate that grows louder each year.

As a fan of true crime myself, I get the appeal. These stories are compelling, and there’s a strange comfort in feeling like we’re learning how to avoid danger or understand the minds of criminals, mostly the latter for me. True crime often sheds light on injustices that might otherwise go ignored. Some stories help reopen cases, bring attention to neglected victims, and remind viewers and listeners of the importance of safety and justice. Shows like Making a Murderer and podcasts like Serial have even impacted real court cases, sometimes leading to retrials or new investigations. In these cases, true crime can serve a purpose beyond just entertainment.

But it’s hard to ignore the ethical concerns. Critics argue that true crime media often capitalizes on real people’s suffering and loss. Victims and their families may relive painful memories when their loved ones’ deaths are discussed in great detail on TV or podcasts. Some critics worry that creators prioritize shocking content over sensitivity, turning real trauma into a spectacle. Families sometimes report feeling like their loved one has been reduced to an episode, losing the humanity of their story.

The ethics also get murky when creators prioritize entertainment over accuracy. Details are sometimes exaggerated or dramatized for dramatic effect, potentially skewing public perception and creating misunderstandings about the criminal justice system. There’s also a risk of misinformation spreading as viewers accept a polished documentary as fact without questioning what’s been omitted or changed.

However, some creators are addressing these concerns by striving for a more ethical approach.

Podcasts like LA Not So Confidential aim to keep true crime respectful and educational by focusing on psychology and societal impacts rather than just the “shocking” elements of cases. Other creators are working with the families of victims, donating proceeds to charities, or using their platforms to raise awareness for causes linked to their stories. These efforts show it’s possible to present true crime in a way that honors victims rather than exploiting them.

Ultimately, true crime has both risks and benefits. It can educate and expose truths, but it also walks a fine line between storytelling and exploitation. As fans, we can be more thoughtful about the content we support, choosing shows and podcasts that approach stories responsibly and considerately. By supporting ethical creators, fans can enjoy true crime responsibly and ensure that real lives aren’t reduced to mere entertainment.