Screaming Penguin - Source Does Matter

Clear Channel Communications, which owns virtually every radio station in the states, has suspended Howard Stern from being played on any of their stations due to violations of their new "no tolerance" indecency policy. Clear Channel has been under fire from the FCC for its content and now that we have seen Janet Jacksons tit on television the FCC is fired up and media companies are eager to appear to be taking them seriously.

Without saying what Howard did wrong Clear Channel Pres and CEO John Hogan stated that his Tuesday show was "was vulgar, offensive and insulting, not just to women and African-Americans but to anyone with a sense of common decency."

I didnt hear the show either, because I dont listen to Howard Stern, but all this censorship is asinine. I personally was a bit offended by the superbowl halftime show because it was on when kids and familys were watching and it was unexpected. Had I known superbowl halftime shows would feature rappers crotches and Janets tit I would not have watched. However, had it been on MTV or such an adult oriented show or network where it is to be expected then it would have been fine. To call Howard Stern out is ridiculous, I have an idea, dont like Howard Stern, then dont listen to him? Its not like any of his listeners should in any way be surprised at the content?

As for Clear Channel, well they absolutely have a right to air whatever they want, they own the stations. And their customers have a right to react as they want and can accordingly try to find another station (difficult when they own virtually everything, but still alternatives can be found). But if this is a stunt to get the FCC of their backs, which it may well be, then its ridiculous that they have to do so. When it comes to consenting adults not physically hurting anyone the state should not have any say in what is "decent" and "moral" and "offensive" and should not be telling companies what to do. People and communities should decide that for themselves and legislate it with their attention or lack thereof.

For more see the linked CNN article.   Howard Stern suspended for indecency: CNN