The Equal Time and Fairness Doctrines: Outdated or Crucial to American Politics in the 1980s

The Federal Communications Commission recently voted to urge congressional repeal of the equal opportunities and fairness doctrines. This article evaluates the arguments favoring repeal in light of the probable impact of the media on the political process in the 1980's. Instead of repeal of the doctrines, the authors advocate adoption of a "proportional time law," which would enable broadcasters to concentrate coverage on major political candidates, but also ensure some coverage of minor candidates.