Free Speech and Its Limits Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Free Speech and Its Limits - Case Study Example The history of broadcasting in this country began when all radio stations were publicly owned by controlling the public's ownership of the airwaves. Stations were licensed to use a given frequency and were deemed to be a public service. In return for the use of the airwaves, the station had a responsibility to provide news and information that was in the public interest and promoted the public good. This gave rise to the 'Public Service Announcement' and the concept of 'equal time' for political candidates. However, with the privatization of the airwaves by big media concerns, these historical concepts have given way to entertainment and agendas. Within the framework of legality and decency there should be no limits to free speech in the media. Technology has made radio, television, and the Internet more accessible to consumers as well as content providers. This proliferation has caused our society, culture, politics, and government to become enmeshed and inseparable. If we rid our media of politics, we will not have a forum to discuss our most important social and cultural issues. Free speech was granted as a way to air our differences and find common ground. It protects us from tyranny and oppression and reduces the suppression of the minority viewpoint. The mayor of Port Arthur