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• Monday, April 16, 2007 06:24 PM

  It is About Capitalism and the First Amendment

  Imus was on the air because there is a market for his brand of hatred, arrogance and divisiveness. Ironically, he was fired because he pissed-off a large group of Americans who united, spoke up, put pressure on advertisers and successfully threatened profits. Opinions are broadcast if there is a market for them. It is about dollars.

  These days, hatred and bigotry feed the fears of many frustrated, angry Americans who find comfort that their emotions are shared. Unfortunately, it is mostly the extreme right who seems to need it the most, and the broadcasters fulfill that need.

  I can't listen to Rush Limbaugh for more than a minute simply because I can't hear what he is trying to say over his loud anger and hatred. Personally, I can't stand the negativity, the false facts being broadcast to millions just begging to be brainwashed. But there is a market for this stuff.

  I may not respect the speaker but I respect the rights of all of us to speak, yell, babble or chant whatever drabble someone wants to puke out. More legislation to protect or restrict broadcasted speech isn't necessary. We just need to respect the First Amendment, even when we don't like the side effects.

  It is only when we decide to think for ourselves and stop fearing knowledge that the hate-broadcasters will no longer have a market. As long as they are profitable we must live with them. I support those who put Imus out of business (until he lands somewhere else) and I do not support Imus, but I am deeply grateful that both sides may speak without government interference.

  Jennifer S.

  St. Charles, MO

  —JenniferInMO Read JenniferInMO's other letters
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