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The pros and cons of media consolidation
(Note: companies that
could be impacted by the content of this article are listed at the base of the
story [desktop version]. This article uses third-party references to provide a
bullish, bearish, and balanced point of view; sources are listed after the
Balanced section.)
Prometheus Radio Project versus the FCC was a series of cases challenging new media ownership rules put forth by the FCC in 2002 easing the limits of cross-ownership of media. Prior to 2002, companies were prohibited from owning television and newspaper stations in the same market, and ownership of television and radio stations was limited. After the ruling, a three-tier system was put in place with more restrictive measures for smaller markets, less restrictive measures for mid-sized markets, and no restrictions for large markets. The Prometheus Radio Project, a non-profit organization advocating for community radio stations to bring about social change, brought a case against the FCC, ultimately resulting in the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals remanding the case back to the FCC. The FCC has petitioned the court for a rehearing. Does the lessoning of media ownership represent a reflection of a changing media environment (Bull Case) or are controls needed to insure a fair and unbiased media (Bear Case)?