fairness doctrine

American  

[fair-nis] / ˈfɛər nɪs /

noun

1. a policy mandated by the Federal Communications Commission, requiring radio and television stations to grant equal time to a political candidate, group, etc., to present an opposing viewpoint to one already aired.

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Etymology

Origin of fairness doctrine

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

For decades, however, America had the FCC's "fairness doctrine."

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2023

A fairness doctrine required networks to cover important public controversies and give opposing sides equal time when they did so.

From Washington Post • Jul. 8, 2021

Mr. Limbaugh replaced him and was soon developing his ad-lib style — but one constrained by the Federal Communications Commission’s fairness doctrine.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2021

For decades, the Federal Communications Commission attempted to insure balanced news coverage with its fairness doctrine, which compelled broadcasters to present “discussion of conflicting views of public importance.”

From The New Yorker • Aug. 10, 2015

Last week the FCC responded by junking the fairness doctrine entirely.

From Time Magazine Archive