There was a time we could participate in discussions. Conservative William F Buckley, Jr. would have heated discussions with liberal Gore Vidal on air. Yet they would dine together after the broadcast.
In an era of polarized talk radio, it has become acceptable, even required to use the ad hominem fallacy to win the argument. The more correct side is the side with the greatest volume. When one appears to be losing the argument, the radio personality wins. Not because of superior rhetorical skills, but because they have control of the “kill button” and the advantage of always having the last. uncontested word.
I wish I could say that this situation has been caused by the radicals on the left and on the right. But that would not acknowledged the reality that the Fox News or Premiere Radio media broadcast giants make their money on broadcasting controversy. Civility does not sell.
When a radio host goes on a rant, as you did, the cultivated hate which boosted the ratings and market share, becomes a backlash. Most Americans have an innate sense of fair play. When this is violated by a radio host railing against a likable caller asking for assistance, no apology could ever negate the sense of outrage.
When I did some radio in my earlier years, I was taught to leave anything I did not want to escape over the airways outside the studio door. Once inside the studio, the only language permitted was that of a cultured person – even before and after the show and during breaks. The pressure to be controversial negates this practice. One must get one’s juices flowing. And so what contributed to your success, caused the backlash which left you without a bully pulpit.
I listened to you since you were first syndicated. I heard your journey from a caring person wanting to help people with their life problems to becoming a member of the ranters – fitting in with the requirements of controversy radio, It was a sad unraveling. And had nothing to do with your constitutional rights. You are merely reaping what you had sown.
Dr. Laura’s blog: http://www.drlaurablog.com/
Give Me that Old Time Christianism 