To fully understand the broad implications of any new technology, it’s important to see the forest—not just the trees. That’s common sense, one might think, until it comes down to trying to separate the forest from the tree people.
America’s television broadcasters, the tree people—with a status quo to maintain—have tried to block a clear view of the forest. Along the way, their delusions have sold the equivalent of several Brooklyn Bridges.
Today, the Federal Communications Commission is trying to reclaim airwaves to expand the use of low-cost wireless Internet services throughout the nation. They have suggested taking it from the broadcasters—since they are the one group in the nation who has never paid for the use of the spectrum they use. Long ago, you see, the broadcasters were given the use of free spectrum in exchange for providing a public service.
What the FCC is proposing is more than fair. They would actually pay the broadcasters to get the spectrum back. Yet, the broadcasters are still screaming bloody murder.
The broadcasters tell us they still provide a valuable public service. They actually, with a straight face, contend the news from their blow-dried anchors is essential to keeping the public informed. Like I said, they are delusional!
Of course, this is all total bull. We need cheap or free Internet access because cable and the telcos are sucking us dry. Very few people watch over-the-air TV anymore. And there’s good reason.
I say give the broadcasters zilch. Allow them a chance to buy their spectrum or pull the plug on them. No more free spectrum. In my opinion, their time is up. The have gagged us with excess commercialism. They've dumbed down all they have touched. They've had a license to print money long enough. It's time to end this charade.
