Monday, May 31, 2010

On media access

LRT is right to note that there's far less actual demand for right-wing propaganda than one would think from the sheer amount of it available. But at the same time, we also shouldn't underestimate its reach or ignore its dangerous effects.

After all, the number of people reached by even a relatively unpopular broadcast outlet may well be enough to sway public opinion by influencing what gets discussed and how. And there are plenty of examples of wealthy owners taking a loss on media outlets in order to better serve their interests elsewhere - e.g. by shouting down any talk of a progressive tax system, or (as in the current brouhaha) fomenting anger at workers.

That's why the likes of John Gormley will perpetually have access to a substantial audience, even if truly market-based decisions would see them turfed. And it's why we can't afford to let his ilk get too extreme without being called out through the more modest media that we have available.

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