Rescission of the Fairness Doctrine by the FCC

On August 4, 1987, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially repealed the Fairness Doctrine, a policy implemented in 1949. The Fairness Doctrine mandated that holders of broadcast licenses present controversial issues of public importance in a manner that was, in the FCC’s words, honest, equitable, and balanced. This significant development marked a pivotal shift in the landscape of broadcasting and media regulation in the United States.

Background

The Fairness Doctrine was introduced as part of a broader effort to ensure that the rapidly expanding broadcasting industry worked in the public interest. It stemmed from the belief that television and radio stations, given their influence and reach, had a duty to provide a platform for a diversity of perspectives, especially on matters of political and social significance. Broadcasters were required not only to devote airtime to discussions on controversial topics but also to provide a fair representation of opposing viewpoints.

Events Leading to the Repeal

The move towards rescission began in earnest in the 1980s, a period characterized by deregulation across various industries under the Reagan Administration. The FCC under Chairman Mark S. Fowler, appointed by President Ronald Reagan, initiated a comprehensive review of existing broadcast regulations. Critics argued that the Fairness Doctrine infringed on First Amendment rights by compelling broadcasters to present specific viewpoints and that it was outdated in an era with more media diversity emerging, such as cable TV.

The FCC’s decision to eliminate the Fairness Doctrine was rooted in the belief that the rule potentially stifled broadcasting freedom and journalistic integrity by dictating content and discouraging the airing of controversial issues to avoid regulatory burdens.

Impact and Consequences

The rescission of the Fairness Doctrine had far-reaching implications for the American media landscape:

1. Increased Partisanship in Media: Without the requirement to balance perspectives, broadcasters were able to adopt more partisan approaches in their programming, contributing to the rise of overtly conservative or liberal networks.

2. Growth of Talk Radio: The removal of the Fairness Doctrine paved the way for the growth of talk radio, with figures such as Rush Limbaugh capitalizing on the ability to present unabashedly partisan viewpoints.

3. Ongoing Debate: The repeal has been a subject of ongoing debate. Supporters argue it champions free speech and diversity of opinion, while critics claim it has led to increased polarization and misinformation.

Broader Historical Significance

The removal of the Fairness Doctrine can be seen as a precursor to the present-day media environment, characterized by niche programming and a wide array of media outlets catering to specific ideological demographics. This decision reflects broader trends in deregulation and the evolving role of media in shaping public discourse and opinion.

In conclusion, the FCC’s action on August 4, 1987, was a landmark moment in American media policy, breaking with nearly four decades of regulatory precedent and opening the floodgates to a new era of broadcast journalism.