Media Bites July 15 2010

A recent ruling on TV decency occurred this week. The US appeals court has struck down an FCC policy that banned the broadcasting of profanity. A BBC news article goes on to say that the original ruling banning 'patently offensive' references to sex, sexual organs and excretion with no real definition of what is truly offensive generated far too much fear among American broadcasters. Now its OK to swear and use the actual words for sexual organs and bodily functions.

All of this is really the byproduct of the society we live in and the race for ratings and revenue. The more shocking or scary, the more viewers tune in; more viewers= higher ratings and in turn the chance to charge higher rates for ad placement. Don't get me wrong, its a business and business needs to make a profit-just not sure we need to sink quite this low to do it.

Here's something else to keep in mind: broadcast television is for entertainment and information and must be closely monitored at all times when you have kids ( I speak from experience). It is not the responsibility of the media properties to be educators and be held accountable for what is airing because there is not enough diligence in the household to prevent certain eyes and ears from absorbing questionable content. Should they do some self regulating? You bet-but they never will, so it is up to the individual or family to decide what is and is not appropriate. There is a great tool on the set-its called the power switch.