Since the advent of the radio and other broadcasting systems, there has always been some sort of controversy over what is put out on the airs. Often times the broadcasters adhere to the social and political outcry that arises from the masses. The industry labels and artists are subjected to backlash with pressure to follow moral implicated strictures. The result is a combative game of tug of war as our social conscience tries to strive for balance.
This balance in our day and age has not been reached. Art is held up against a test of morality for its content and what the ramifications would be if this obscene material reached the eyes and ears of minors. In our pop oriented and morality fascinated culture our children must be protected at all costs. The question that falls most easily to peoples minds is, but at what cost? Most people feel at ease with the idea of rescinding on their constitutionally guaranteed rights. In order for the added security or protection that government and law enforcement agencies can offer. We have begun to examine this more closely following the tragic events of September 11'th. Sadly the infringement on our civil liberties has not been met with any large public outcry. This is the post 9/11 world that should be feared the most.
The concept of balance is not in any way shape or form brand new. For the last hundred years the balance has been upset. From Elvis to the Beatles what has been condoned appropriate for the public has constantly changed. On one side you have the artists, their label companies and the public all yelling for freedom of expression under the first amendment. On the other side you have government, parental groups, and religious organizations all advocating for the restriction of certain material in our media based on the content and message it conveys to youths and those susceptible to suggestion. Independent thought and expression must take a backseat if the culture is to survive with its supposed integrity and moral up righteousness.
