Disclosure: I worked w. O'Connor while he was at Newstrust. The author states, "Most informed political observers believe there is scant possibility that the fusty doctrine will ever be re-imposed – and even less chance that even if it were, talk radio would be “eliminated.” Did I miss where he provided evidence of this? Again, other than linking to his new book, Rory doesn't provide me w. links. Ones to documentation of his quotes and claims would be helpful.

The article addresses the attempt to blow up the image of the fairness doctrine as an attack on fairness. When rich white right wing owners have created a near monopoly on the airwaves, and banish most progressive talk, the reich wing talks of being persecuted. The story is mildly informative, but meanders a bit.

Good article about some in talk radio trying to create worry about the return of the "Fairness Doctrine." It is not going to happen. Radio is a business out to make a profit, at the moment the "wing nuts" make a profit, the industry would be afraid that they would have to program competing views (which they are afraid would not be profitable) if the doctrine were reinstated. That profit motive will drive tremendous opposition to "equal time" type measures and keep the "Fairness ... More »

Informative article about questionable practices by some conservative media outlets to promote their causes under the guise of journalism. A helpful perspective on how political viewpoints can influence news media coverage at the detriment of the public interest. [Disclosure: the author, Rory O'Connor, is a longtime supporter and contributor to NewsTrust]

This sounds more like a made up story since the journalist has a book to plug. While I agree that the fairness doctrine may be a good thing to ressurect I think that we really don't get more than innuendo in this article and speculation. More meat would have been better.

NOTE: the author of the piece has posted a review. This must be removed immediately. It is a violation of all COI rules to allow that. This opinion piece has little merit. It is nothing more than a far-left attack on opinion makers who are not on the far left like the author. There is considerable reason for worry that media censorship will come back: just look at Canada. And far more hate comes from the far left talk radio than from the right, as any of the handful who listened to ... More »