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Fairness Doctrine Pros And Cons

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Kayla Mallari
Professor Hogen-Esch
Pols 155 The Fairness Doctrine was a policy established by the Federal Communications Commission, that states those with broadcast license such as radio stations and television programs must present controversial public issues in way that is honest, balanced, and fair within the time of their program. The policy was passed by Congress in 1949, its main concern was that diverse views and controversial issues that regard the public be available for society to be aware of. This also entitled political programs to present opposing sides of an issue. Broadcasters had obligation to show the public the spectrum of an argument. Furthermore the doctrine also includes that the broadcasters must allow anyone being …show more content…

The repeal has given broadcasters the power to dismiss issues or state them in a manner that is bias. Ralph Nader an American politic activist explains that without the Fairness Doctrine public issues, including women's rights, the health effects of smoking, and the safety of nuclear power plants, would not have not been apparent to society. Many have considered the reinstatement of the Fairness Doctrine, in 2005 by U.S Representative Louise Slaughter, in 2007 by Senator Richard Durbin, then again in 2008. In my opinion I think the Fairness Doctrine should be reinstated but also reevaluated and revived so that it fits are society today. The doctrine should include factors that still protect the first amendment but enables the public to be knowledgeable of issues, in which they can form their own opinions on. News and other media today is very bias and provides entertainment rather than knowledge of current news that impact our lives. I believe the public needs to be fully aware of issue and political views in a broad spectrum rather than the bias view of the broadcasters

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