Censorship and Shock Jocks Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Censorship and Shock Jocks - Essay Example Howard Stern has said, "It is pretty shocking that governmental interference into our rights and free speech takes place in the U.S., ... It's hard to reconcile this with the 'land of the free' and the 'home of the brave.' "2 Apparently many times callers have tried to get Howard Stern's show censored by the FCC. According to the FCC, "[callers who complain] stating only that the objectionable programming 'discussed sex' or had a 'disgusting discussion of sex' is not sufficient. Moreover, the FCC must know the context when analyzing whether specific, isolated words or images are obscene, indecent, or profane."3 Many times, Howard Stern has had people on his show who are on the fringes of society, including porn stars, hookers, wrestling personalities, politicians, and all kinds of people from various sectors of the American landscape. He prides himself on his show being one of the most controversial there is. Howard Stern's language has apparently not only been a bane to the FCC in the past, but also in the present. The FCC has long challenged many of Howard Stern's statements as being profane or obscene or indecent in nature. Truly, these kinds of shows are not meant to offend intentionally-or, perhaps they are. But the basic point of these kinds of shows is that they force people to think and reevaluate their concepts and notions of right and wrong. Radio persIn that regard, Howard Stern continues to push the envelope as a shock jock. He continually makes comments that are rude, crass, and otherwise disgusting-all in the name of entertainment. Howard Stern does this mainly to entertain-and shock-his listeners. He is known for saying outrageous things. Howard Stern flies in the face of modern radio broadcasting. His foul mouth, his daring attitude, and not-so-subtle displays of affection on his show have shocked and offended many, perhaps. However, what makes Howard Stern appealing as an artist is the very fact that he does shock his listeners. If it weren't for that added touch, he wouldn't be as special as other radio personalities. Radio personalities such as Howard Stern should not be censored because their