Most people agree that there is a significant difference in our beliefs, depending on where we get our news and information…we experience it at the office, in social gatherings, and at the latest family event.
Perhaps we should consider the impact of public service over profit. News is no longer non-partisan and it ignores the purpose of serving the greater good. If we are aware of this phenomenon, we might consider a different way to consume it and create some change.
History of Media Regulation
1949: FCC introduces The Fairness Doctrine, requiring balanced reporting on public issues.
1980s: Cable TV expands, and is not subject to the same FCC rules as broadcast TV.
1987: The Fairness Doctrine abolished, allowing more partisan content.
Impact of Changes
Deregulation
New corporate ownership of networks
Focus on niche audiences with specific ideologies
Profit-driven model
This shift, coupled with the 1987 abolition of the Fairness Doctrine, fundamentally changed the media landscape. It prioritized profitability over public service, contributing to the rise of partisan political commentary.
Consequences of Media Imbalance
Increased polarization
Spread of misinformation
Erosion of trust in institutions
Echo chambers and filter bubbles
Heightened partisan animosity
Distorted public priorities
Reduced quality of political discourse
Increased support for extreme measures
Amplification of fringe views
Challenges to effective governance
This shift has reshaped America. While extremely profitable for individual companies and wealthy individuals, it is contributing to a more divided and polarized society. Many might refer to this as “Free Market”. There are extreme consequences to our inability to access facts without an agenda. Unfortunately, this also impacts our relationships, critical thinking, and voting!.
Perhaps we should consider the impact of public service over profit. News is no longer non-partisan and it ignores the purpose of serving the greater good.
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