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

In 1949, the Federal Communications Commission established the fairness doctrine, which interpreted operating in the public interest to require broadcasters to cover major public-policy debates and present multiple points of view.

From New York Times • Oct. 13, 2020

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

The court of appeals ruled, however, that automobile and gasoline advertising on television may be in the same class as cigarette advertising, that is, "controversial," and therefore subject to the fairness doctrine.

From Time Magazine Archive