Haven’t heard about the Doctrine? That’s because it’s a rule that was abolished more than 20 years ago by the FCC.

Yet, heated discussion about the Fairness Doctrine has recently circulated over the airwaves of both progressive and conservative talk radio programs.

Originally introduced in 1949, the Fairness Doctrine required broadcasters to allow time to discuss controversial topics of public interest. Stations were also required to air contrasting viewpoints of those matters, although equal time was not a part of the rule.

During the Reagan administration, the rule was abolished by the FCC, which argued the Doctrine hurt public interest rather than help it.

In the wake of a Democratic Party stronghold in Washington and the popularity of opinion-driven talk radio programs around the country, some AM radio hosts have expressed concern over a reinstatement of the Fairness Doctrine.

Some Democrats in Congress, including House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi, have expressed support of the Fairness Doctrine. However, no legislation has made its way to the floor of either house in this session of Congress or the last.

But personally, I think it should be required that opposing points of view should be on all news shows and stations…..it is the only way the American people will know the whole story about the situation.  But on the other side of the coin, shows like those of Rush and Bill-o would probably lose part of their audience if truth and fairness were the rule.  Bashing does NOTHING but deepen any division in the electorate.