The Fairness Doctrine has had a constant presence in the U.S. press lately. The little used requirement was abolished from the law books during the Nixon Administration. Many blame its abolition for the rise of far right wing partisan coverage, in the form of "shock jocks" across the airwaves.
The Fairness Doctrine demanded stations allow for counterpoints to be aired. This legislation, if implemented properly, would allow for the broadening of discussion and limiting of possible court action.
But with the Bush administration on the way out, shock jocks everywhere have been sent into a tizzy over the possible reintroduction of such legislation.
Will it happen? Probably not! But it certainly gives the right wingers a chance to hold onto their belief in free speech- that being the right to lie without repercussions, in a time of waning power.
