The Fairness Doctrine is Anything But Fair
A.K.A-We can’t compete with them in the forum of ideas, so let’s shut em down.
If passed, here’s what we can eventually look forward to...
Legislation currently is before Congress that would reinstate a federal communications policy known as the “fairness doctrine.”
It would codify a 1949 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulation that once required broadcasters to ”afford reasonable opportunity for the discussion of conflicting views of public importance.”
The fairness doctrine was overturned by the FCC in 1987. The FCC discarded the rule because, contrary to its purpose, it failed to encourage the discussion of more controversial issues.
There were also concerns that it was in violation of First Amendment free speech principles. The legislation now before Congress would enshrine the fairness doctrine into law.
Faulty Premise #1: “Fairness” or “fair access” is best determined by FCC authorities.
Reality: FCC bureaucrats can neither determine what is “fair” nor enforce it.
Faulty Premise #2: The fairness doctrine guarantees that more opinions will be aired.
Reality: Arbitrary enforcement of the fairness doctrine will diminish vigorous debate.
If passed, here’s what we can eventually look forward to...
U.S. liberal darling and Danny Glover/Harry Belafonte hero,Venezuela President Hugo Chavez shuts down RCTV, one of four privately owned television stations in the country and the only one to maintain its opposition to Chavez.
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