The article reflects on Newton Minow's role as the FCC chairman during an incident involving President John F. Kennedy's criticism of a news broadcast. The author shares a personal anecdote demonstrating their father's commitment to integrity and holding media accountable for public interests. Minow's assertion that hearing dissenting opinions is crucial for testing ideas resonates strongly in the current political climate. His famous speech to television executives emphasized the importance of serving the public effectively, highlighting his dedication to ethical broadcasting and the enduring relevance of such principles.
What my father knew, and what Kennedy appreciated once he'd calmed down, is that it may be hard to hear what people think of your ideas, but it is the only way to test them.
Dad is best remembered for a speech he gave on May 9, 1961, to the National Association of Broadcasters, when he told television executives that they needed to do a better job of living up to their license agreements to serve the public interest.
Collection
[
|
...
]