A court of appeal in the US has decided against implementing an "unconstitutional" piece of legislation which would have forced the media to clean up their language.
The policy, which was drawn up in 2004, would have meant that potty- mouthed broadcasters would face a fine.
The court said banning all "patently offensive" references without a clear definition of what is considered offensive, effectively chills speech and creates an atmosphere of fear among America's broadcasters.
Media outlets are said to be pleased with this ruling, and rightly so. Many, many things seem to be so wrong with the mere concept.
The policy, which was drawn up in 2004, would have meant that potty- mouthed broadcasters would face a fine.
The court said banning all "patently offensive" references without a clear definition of what is considered offensive, effectively chills speech and creates an atmosphere of fear among America's broadcasters.
Media outlets are said to be pleased with this ruling, and rightly so. Many, many things seem to be so wrong with the mere concept.
Firstly, the ruling would certainly have curbed 'freedom of speech' whilst further conservatising America's media - as if it needs it.
Secondly, the English language is vast and exciting- swearing and contraversial words have evolved for a reason. When used well, they can really add something to a point or idea. They convey concepts and ideas that cannot be communicated with 'nice' words. And how boring is a language made up only of 'nice' words?
Media should challenge the status quo, push boundaries, get people talking, not pander to the whims of supposedly outraged housewives, with nothing better to do than complain about nothing.
The very idea that this legislation was even drawn up in the first place is everything that is wrong with America. Not that these issues aren't present in Britain- most of us like nothing better than writing a stern letter.
Sure, implement a watershed, a suitable context in which more daring shows can be shown. But don't just force a blanket ban and bore the American public to within an inch of their life.
But people making a 'moral' issue about things that really don't affect them or anyone else really gets me. If you don't like shows that are a bit 'contraversial' then STOP WATCHING THEM. And as for 'the kids': they're not aimed at children- don't let your kids watch them. Simple as.
But well done court of appeals for rejecting this terrifying idea.
After all, they're only words.
But people making a 'moral' issue about things that really don't affect them or anyone else really gets me. If you don't like shows that are a bit 'contraversial' then STOP WATCHING THEM. And as for 'the kids': they're not aimed at children- don't let your kids watch them. Simple as.
But well done court of appeals for rejecting this terrifying idea.
After all, they're only words.
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