Regulation of Radio

In the 1920's, radio ruled the media; it was the main medium for news and entertainment. With the invention of the popular device, stations were being formed at an alarming rate. Prior to government regulations, any station was able broadcast, which led to a overload of stations on frequencies. Government began to interfere with the Radio Act of 1912, enforcing licensing. Through regulation, government can enforce laws that change how we use a form of communication. Although the government initially did not have much control, through regulation it was able to shape the radio we listen to today.

The Radio Act of 1927 was formed to eliminate chaos on the airwaves as stations were interfering with the frequencies of others. The act gave the government power to regulate which stations were licensed to broadcast. The act also allowed the Federal Radio Commission to revoke licenses and fine those in violation of the act. Some saw the government regulation as a infringement upon the fifth amendment of the U.S. Constitution, preventing free speech in the media. Although censorship did not exist at the time, stations were not allowed to air "obscene, indecent, or profane language." FRC made sure stations operated for "public interest, convenience, and necessity." With regulation over radio, the government would influence the evolution of the device, ensuring the safety of listeners through censorship by the Federal Communications Commission(FCC).

Goodman, Mark. "The Radio Act of 1927 As a Product of Progressivism." Web. 24 September 2010. <http://www.scripps.ohiou.edu/mediahistory/mhmjour2-2.htm>.

Straubhaar, Joseph, Robert LaRose, and Lucinda Davenport. Media Now: Understanding Media, Culture, and Technology. 6th Edition. Wadsworth Publishing, 2009. 608. Print.