Media consolidation silences diverse voices

[Mass]

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1107/6758.html

Media consolidation silences diverse voices

By: Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John F. Kerry
Nov 7, 2007 07:39 PM EST

The bedrock of America’s greatest advances — the foundation of what we know today are defining values — was formed not by cheering on things as they were, but by taking them on and demanding change.

The thoughtful exchange of diverse viewpoints not only helps guarantee our freedom as individuals, it ensures those in power can be held accountable for all that they do.

But to engage in the debates that have always made America stronger, it takes a stage and a platform for discussion — and never before have these platforms been more endangered.

In recent years, we have witnessed unprecedented consolidation in our traditional media outlets. Large mergers and corporate deals have reduced the number of voices and viewpoints in the media marketplace.

At the same time, massive technological change and an explosion of Internet access have opened new avenues for information and new methods of discourse. One thing we can be sure of: Change is upon us.

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[Bjorn Against]

1. Expect the media to get much tougher on Obama and Kerry...

Not over this issue of course, they would prefer this not be a topic of debate. But they will go after them over other things as payback for them speaking out against the interests of the corporate media.

I don't even care for Obama much myself, but I am glad he had the guts to speak out on this.