Free Speech Under Attack

Why does a forum where each person is given the same amount of time to speak seem "creepy? to you" Why do people think that equal time for opposing points of view is somehow silencing speech?

Could it be that modern day captains of a deregulated media industry can shut out any voice they choose, even within the Republican Party they promote? That by manipulating masses with half truths, name calling and innuendo, they can confuse facts with fiction? That by labeling the media "liberal," they have created the boogeyman in the closet which disappears when light is shined upon it? That this recipe for deceiving and dividing us makes into huge profits, the people and the democracy be damned?

Free speech matters. So does respect. It is time for all of us to start talking with each other again, instead of shouting talking points at each other. It is a matter of national importance, and it is our responsibilty as good citizens.

It is time for a real debate over these issues. With both sides represented. Real free speech. Come on, Katy Grimes. You and me. I dare you.

Sue Wilson
http://www.broadcastblues.tv

you? We here at TH try to be civil and polite, albeit passionate, but I visited your website. Katy, Sue is at least an order of fries short of a Happy Meal, a certifiable nut job.

Here are the seven techniques of propaganda:

1)Bandwagon: Pump up the value of 'joining the party'. ; 2)Card-stacking: Build a highly-biased case for your position.; 3)Glittering generalities: Use power words to evoke emotions.; 4)Name-calling: Denigrating opponents.; 5)Plain folks: Making the leader seem ordinary increases trust and credibility.;
6)Testimonial: The testimony of an independent person is seen as more trustworthy.;
7)Transfer: Associate the leader with trusted others.

drpete uses number four, name-calling about me. How many can you count in a Katy Grimes story?

Why are you unwilling to simply debate facts?

Here are the seven techniques of propaganda:

1)Bandwagon: Pump up the value of 'joining the party'. ; 2)Card-stacking: Build a highly-biased case for your position.; 3)Glittering generalities: Use power words to evoke emotions.; 4)Name-calling: Denigrating opponents.; 5)Plain folks: Making the leader seem ordinary increases trust and credibility.;
6)Testimonial: The testimony of an independent person is seen as more trustworthy.;
7)Transfer: Associate the leader with trusted others.

drpete uses number four, name-calling about me. How many can you count in a Katy Grimes story?

Why are you unwilling to simply debate facts?

Sue - perhaps you should read my first column about the Chavez-like evening run by Common Cause. were you there? It is really interesting how I haven't received any follow-up communications, emails or invitations from the group organizers.

http://katygrimes.blogtownhall.com/2009/04/04/welcome_to_hu goland.thtml

You have no desire to discuss this any more than did the facilitator the evening of the FCC filmed meeting- that much is obvious. It was not about fairness and everyone getting a chance to talk; it was purely about constraining the discussion and manipulating the outcome.

What's so fair about trying to silence one segment of the radio?

Fetchingjen,
I was there, which panel did you sit on? At the radio table, there was spirited debate, even within time constraints. Sharp disagreements, which were reported by the facilitator.

You write "What's so fair about trying to silence one segment of the radio?" You are asking exactly the correct question. One that deserves real discussion.

And you are mistaken, I do wish to discuss this, publicly, loudly, fairly. What have I ever said or written that would make you think otherwise? Please do not put words in my (or others) mouths.

I love my country, and I bet you do, too. But we have been conditioned to shout at each other, instead of talking with each other, and that is bad for the US of A.

So I am serious about a debate. I am an Emmy winning broadcaster, have worked for CBS, PBS, NPR, and FOX. I've written on these topics for the Bee. I've made a film about it.

Katy and I have an honest difference of opinion about the Fairness Doctrine and other media issues. But does she have the nerve to debate me, in front of an audience, friends and foes?

My bet is she will either ignore this challenge, or just call me names.

I don't call names. I just point out facts.