The 1987 FCC Decision on Indecency

Name: The 1987 FCC Decision on Indecency
Start: 1987-04-16
Location: Unspecified

The 1987 FCC's Broadening of Indecency Defined

In 1987, a significant change occurred in the U.S. communications landscape when the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) expanded its definition of indecency over public airwaves. This shift aimed to regulate the content aired on television and radio, primarily to protect minors from potentially harmful material. The decision came as a response to rising concerns among parents and community groups about the exposure of children to graphic or sexual content during hours when children were likely to be watching television or listening to the radio.

The Background of the 1987 FCC Decision

The call for stricter regulations on indecency was fueled by various high-profile incidents where explicit language or adult themes were broadcast during peak family viewing times. The FCC's revised definition established clearer boundaries regarding what could be aired, providing greater authority in sanctioning broadcasters who violated these rules. They emphasized what was deemed as offensive, including explicit sexual content and potentially profane language, stating that any content that could be seen as 'patently offensive' to community standards must be regulated.

Impact on Broadcasters

This broadening of indecency definitions meant that radio and television broadcasters had to exercise more caution concerning the content they aired. Consequently, they were compelled to implement stricter content guidelines and include delay systems during live broadcasts to prevent any accidental airing of indecent materials. Many sought to navigate this regulatory landscape carefully in order to avoid penalties, which could include hefty fines or even loss of broadcasting licenses.

The Aftermath of the 1987 Indecency Ruling

As a result of the 1987 decision, the media landscape underwent profound changes, especially in the content programming strategies of broadcasters. Many television shows adopted more stringent editorial guidelines to comply with the new ruling, which continued to impact content production for years.

Continued Debate Over Indecency

Despite the FCC's efforts, the debate surrounding the limits of indecency persists. Critics argue that the definition remains subjective, leaving many unresolved questions about what constitutes indecent material. As society’s values evolve, so too do opinions on what is considered acceptable in public broadcasting, creating a challenging environment for regulators and broadcasters alike.

Legal Challenges to Indecency Standards

In the years following the 1987 ruling, there were numerous legal challenges to the FCC's indecency standards, highlighting the ongoing contention between regulatory policies and free speech rights. These legal battles have shaped and reshaped indecency regulations, underscoring the importance of finding a balance between protecting the public interest and preserving freedom of expression.

Fun Fact

Unintended Consequences of the Ruling

A curious outcome of the FCC's broadened indecency definitions was the rise in the production and demand for content on cable television, where fewer restrictions applied. Consequently, many viewers turned to premium channels for programming that explored adult themes and explicit content, leading to the eventual expansion of the cable industry.