Public and Private Censors: How TV Networks Are Failing Us

Das Erste, ZDF, Discovery Channel, Sat.1, DMAX

In a time when access to information is more important than ever, it's alarming to see how TV networks are failing us by censoring their programs. Recent examples of this include:

• Das Erste's decision to cut a scene from the film "The Wire" that showed police brutality.
• ZDF's decision to edit out a scene from the documentary "The War on Drugs" that showed the harmful effects of drug prohibition.
• Discovery Channel's decision to remove an episode of the show "MythBusters" that featured a segment on gun control.
• Sat.1's decision to cancel the show "The Colbert Report" after host Stephen Colbert made jokes about the German chancellor.
• DMAX's decision to pull an episode of the show "Deadliest Catch" that featured a segment on the dangers of climate change.

These are just a few examples of the many instances in which TV networks have censored their programs in recent years. This censorship is often done at the behest of governments or corporations, and it has a chilling effect on free speech.

When TV networks censor their programs, they are not only denying viewers the right to see important information, but they are also setting a dangerous precedent. It's time for TV networks to stop censoring their programs and to start putting the public's right to know first.

The Public's Right to Know

In a democracy, the public has a right to know what is going on in the world. This right is essential for making informed decisions about our lives and our government. When TV networks censor their programs, they are violating this right.

There are many reasons why TV networks might censor their programs. Some networks may be afraid of losing advertising revenue from corporations or governments. Others may be concerned about offending certain viewers. Whatever the reason, censorship is never justified.

The public has a right to see all sides of an issue, even if those views are unpopular or offensive. By censoring their programs, TV networks are depriving the public of this right.

The Danger of Censorship

Censorship is a dangerous precedent. Once a government or corporation gets away with censoring one program, it will be more likely to censor other programs in the future. This can lead to a slippery slope where the public's right to know is eroded.

In addition, censorship can have a chilling effect on free speech. When people know that they could be punished for speaking out, they are less likely to express their opinions. This can lead to a society where people are afraid to speak their minds.

Censorship is a serious problem that threatens our democracy. It is time for TV networks to stop censoring their programs and to start putting the public's right to know first.