Ed tech types should pay attention to the politics of the FCC. As an exercise use the search box on this blog to search for FCC and see how many times I have had reason to mention the activities of this agency in relationship to school practices.
Anyway, in the wake of the near collapse of the U.S. government, today I encounter a story related to a political fight brewing over the appointment of the proposed FCC chair. Sen. Cruz now is attempting to block the confirmation of Tom Wheeler. I have little idea regarding the Wheeler agenda in general, but the reason offered by Cruz for this objection follows:
blocked the confirmation of Tom Wheeler as chairman of the FCC, saying he wanted greater assurance from President Obama’s nominee that the agency wouldn’t require more funding disclosures for political TV ads. Cruz has said that such free speech should be protected.
I personally draw a distinction between my right to free speech and accountability for my speech. I should certainly be able to make whatever statements I want as long as these statements do not violate law and decency. I do think I should have to own up to my statements. What about you? I would like the disclaimer after political ads to read – this ad was sponsored by many people who a gave a little or this ad was sponsored by a few individuals who gave a lot. It makes a difference in how my critical thinking related to the content would work. Always use the source as part of your process of evaluating content. Just thought of an alternate title – Ted Cruz opposes critical thinking
Big money plays a corrupting role in government in that it gives some individuals more impact than others. It is hardly one person one vote (it likely never really was) – reality has moved toward one dollar one vote. Those with more dollars have more votes. Equity is one of the core issues in educational progress and those forces outside of classrooms that function to move the country in a different direction are working against reducing this problem.