Questions and Answers
Who is the owner of the radio station?
Pacifica Foundation
What happened during the afternoon broadcast?
A recorded monologue by humorist George Carlin titled 'Filthy Words' was broadcast.
What was the result of the broadcast?
A man wrote a letter of complaint to the FCC.
What was the FCC's response to the complaint?
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What were the FCC's findings and results?
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Does the First Amendment deny the government any power to restrict the public broadcast of indecent language under any circumstances?
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What did Pacifica do in response to the FCC's decision?
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What was the outcome of Pacifica's appeal?
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What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the case?
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Study Notes
Case Overview
- Pacifica Foundation is the owner of a radio station involved in the case.
- George Carlin's recorded monologue "Filthy Words" led to the controversy, featuring indecent language without being obscenely vulgar.
Incident Details
- A complaint was filed by a listener who heard the broadcast while driving with his young son.
- The complaint prompted the FCC to take action regarding the content aired.
FCC Investigation and Findings
- The FCC conducted an investigation into the broadcast's content.
- It concluded that the broadcast violated a federal statute that prohibits indecent language on public airwaves.
Legal Question
- The primary issue was whether the First Amendment protects the public broadcast of indecent language under any circumstances.
Pacifica's Action
- In response to the FCC's ruling, Pacifica Foundation appealed the decision.
Outcome of the Appeal
- Pacifica was initially successful in its appeal.
Supreme Court Ruling
- The Supreme Court reversed the appellate decision, emphasizing that broadcasting has the most limited protection under the First Amendment.
- The Court noted the unique characteristics of electronic media, including its pervasive nature and accessibility to children, justifying restrictions on indecent content.
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Description
This quiz covers key terms and events related to the FCC v. Pacifica Foundation case. It includes important figures, incidents, and outcomes surrounding the broadcast of George Carlin's monologue. Test your knowledge on this landmark legal case regarding indecency in broadcasting.
