Keeping the Airwaves Neutral

With the announcement of Jimmy Kimmel’s show being suspended indefinitely, and now The View possibly on the chopping block, it’s important to rediscover the art of tip toeing around politics and personal beliefs.

Does anyone remember the Fairness Doctrine? In 1949, the Federal Communications Commission adopted this policy that stated media needed to have equal broadcast time directed over controversial issues which were meaningful to the public. For instance…If one person said they supported a recent movement, that person could speak their reasoning behind their support. HOWEVER, the other side gets just as much time to voice their opinion on why they do not support it. Clearly, this didn’t always go over well, and the Fairness Doctrine was repealed in 1987.

The bright side of the Fairness Doctrine was  lot of media presenters didn’t want to deal with making sure each side had equal time to speak their peace; so they just stayed away from controversial subjects. This brings me to my point…I don’t think it’s correct in staying away from discussing something that is trending and pretending it didn’t happen. You can easily discuss what event is taking place without taking a side. Simply giving facts without an opinion is your job. We all learned how to side step inquiries from listeners on where we stand. 

I understand the recent argument of Freedom of Speech. On the flip side, do you think going into the corner office after a morning of your “freedom of speech” on air would be worth it? Probably not at this point. I’m not saying fall on your sword and lay down next to your beliefs. Everyone has their own opinion and that’s what makes us great. There’s a time and place to discuss politics and religion. Just like you wouldn’t bring up Trump to your liberal cousin during Thanksgiving, don’t do it on the air.