Discussion Post: Fairness Doctrine
The Fairness Doctrine was a policy that held that broadcast media such as news had an obligation to offer equal airtime for all sides of a particular issue. It was determined in 1987 that the Fairness Doctrine did not have to be enforced by the FCC since it was not specifically mandated by Congress. Since that time, a great deal of news coverage has become much more partisan, even with the pretense of offering opinions on multiple sides.
Task:
• Do you think the Fairness Doctrine should be re-established? Why or why not?
• The Fairness Doctrine has never applied to print media like newspapers. Should it be applied to media other than broadcasting?
• Are there limits to the Fairness Doctrine? (For example, does a show about outer space need to provide equal time for flat Earth information?)
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.