With the advent of my writing gig over at National Geographic Assignment, it has become necessary for me to adhere to a code of ethics. I can’t just be funny, I have to be fact-based funny. The thing is I’ve never written anything untrue or rumor based in my life. When I was a child my parents threatened me with un-anesthetized dismemberment if I lied. The threat stuck.

NGS EDITORIAL CODE OF ETHICS
The National Geographic Society seeks to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge in its broadest sense” through products and programming that reach audiences worldwide, “inspiring people to care about their planet.” National Geographic provides a window to the world, engaging audiences with compelling visuals and great storytelling, cultivating curiosity and wonder about the world, and fostering concern for the environment and the preservation of natural and cultural resources.

• Journalistic Standards: The National Geographic abides by the highest standards of journalist responsibility and ethics. Balanced reporting, and reporting with context are our hallmarks. We present multiple perspectives on the issues, treating all constituencies fairly.
• Authenticity and Accuracy–Material must be factually accurate and fairly presented. NGS prides itself on the integrity of its information, rigor of the research process, and in-depth reporting. NGS treats all people with dignity and avoids stereotypes.
• Taste–All material must be presented in an appropriate and responsible manner. Obscene and blasphemous language and reference to human sexuality, violence, and drug and alcohol use should be used with extreme caution and, if used, be placed in a viable cultural context.
• Government Regulations and Laws–All material borrowed from others must be properly attributed. Text and visuals must have rights cleared and be properly credited. All material must conform to all applicable governmental laws, rules, and regulations.