Vertical integration definitely makes life hard for the independent producers to get their content on the air. Also, it explains why there is so much of the same fare on television and cable channels.
Read MoreVertical integration is another way of describing when one media giant both produces programming and owns the outlets or networks on which the programming (or movies, or music or whatever content) is distributed. This is happening throughout the media world.
Read MoreIn June 2003, the FCC voted to overturn most of the few remaining restrictions still in place on big media corporations. Among other things, the new rules would have allowed one company to own three TV stations, eight radio stations, and the monopoly newspaper in a single market.
Read MoreEarly communications policy started out strongly in favor of preserving and ensuring diverse sources of information. Through a series of actions that spanned until the 1970s, the Federal Communications Commission – the government agency responsible for media policy – adopted rules that restricted the number of media outlets one company could own.
Read MoreThere are many reasons why it is important to have diverse ownership of local media, but consider just a few examples. Assume that one company is allowed to own the dominant newspaper and one or two of the main television stations in your town.
Read MoreWho owns the media makes a huge difference. Americans depend on television and newspapers to learn about the news, understand local and national issues, and make informed choices.
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