In an article entitled, "Prime-Time Shows Are Getting Sexier," the New York Times reports that the sexual content of television is rising. No surprises here; nor is it surprising that voices are being raised for content control by the FCC.
What is surprising (at least to me) is the claim that the consolidation of the telecommunications industry is responsible for the increase in sex. For instance:
"Is there a relationship between the rising tide of indecency on the airwaves and the rising tide of industry consolidation?" Michael J. Copps, an F.C.C. commissioner, asked in a telephone interview. Mr. Copps, who wants his agency not only to write new, stricter indecency rules but also to regulate media ownership more vigilantly, said he detected a link. "It is just possible that the programs designed by advertisers to draw young eyeballs would be somewhat different if they were designed closer to the community," he said. "When you have local ownership, you have more ability to determine what you carry."