Yeah, just like taking a dump is natural and yet we control where that activity takes place for the PUBLIC HEALTH. Likewise you're not permitted to burn garbage in most cities, why? For the PUBLIC HEALTH!
And yes, cable television is public broadcasting in that it is ubiquitous. For example, I have a satellite connection; is that airwaves or cable?
The PUBLIC most certainly has the Right to regulate what is broadcast to the general public. Frankly, I would prefer that the industry regulate itself and exercise discretion over its programming. Unfortunaley it has proven itself incapable of self discipline.
Have you ever read the lyrics of a rap album? Are you willing to defend that level of stupidity going out over the airwaves?
Finally, whether the gov. gets involved or not, this debate is crucial for the protection of our societal environment. And in spite of libertarian denials our societal environment does require protection.
Microsoft Windows is ubiquitous, does that make it publicly-owned? Coca-Cola is ubiquitous, does that make it public? Wal-Mart is pretty damn ubiquitous, too. Is it a public institution?
The PUBLIC most certainly has the Right to regulate what is broadcast to the general public.
Whether or not this statement is true, cable is not broadcast to the general public. It is only broadcast to voluntary subscribers.
Have you ever read the lyrics of a rap album? Are you willing to defend that level of stupidity going out over the airwaves?
I didn't realize there was a "stupidity" standard that allowed the banning of stupid lyrics. Now, if those lyrics involve swearing and such, they can certainly be banned from the public airways. However, they certainly cannot be banned from pay services such as XM or Sirius.
That's scary. TV is a public health service? You're kidding right?