First Amendment Commons^™

F.C.C. And The Fairness Doctrine, Marilyn G. Zack

Cleveland State Law Review

In the United States broadcasting is a competitive business. But radio and television also are media for the expression of free speech in matters of vital concern in a self-governing society. Freedom of protected from governmental abridgement by the first amendment. Is free speech unconstitutionally abridged by governmental action with respect to program content? Or do the fairness doctrine and the personal attack and editorialization rules enhance free speech? What quantum of program control can be justified on the basis of the public interest in view of the first amendment-which applies also to broadcasters?