"In making the controversial decision to repeal the Fairness Doctrine, Patrick and his colleagues abolished a decades-old rule that had governed how Americans received the news."
"Although intended to keep the public informed at a time when there wasn't a wealth of news sources, the effect of the doctrine was that many broadcasters avoided controversial issues entirely."
The article reflects on the FCC's 1987 decision to repeal the Fairness Doctrine, a rule requiring balanced presentation of views on controversial issues. This decision, made by Chairman Dennis Patrick and his colleagues, inadvertently fostered a media environment where partisan outlets thrived. While some liberal media flourished post-repeal, conservative talk radio, led by figures like Rush Limbaugh, rose sharply. Initially aimed to inform a public with limited news sources, the Fairness Doctrine often deterred broadcasters from covering contentious topics to avoid repercussions.
Read at Poynter
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