Paper assignment #1

length: 3-4 pages
due: Monday, April 22

In 1974, the Supreme Court argued in Miami Herald v. Tornillo that, "although newspapers of the present are superficially similar to those of 1791 the press of today is in reality very different from that known in the early years of our national existence." Even as it continues to have a powerful influence on public opinion, the newspaper industry has become increasingly noncompetitive. Ownership of newspapers has become economically concentrated; many U.S. cities have only one major paper. However, the Supreme Court discards this concern and renders their decision in this case according to other priorities.

Explain why a concern for economic concentration may pose a problem for free speech; explain also why this concern is nevertheless discarded by the Court. Then, using the arguments of Bagdikian, Entman, and Compaine, discuss whether current arrangements in today's media industry do or do not warrant a reconsideration of this decision.

Do not be afraid to experiment with the language and arguments made by Streeter or Fiss in your response.