Dirty Discourse (PDF)

Changes in society, the pluralistic nature of the citizens and the
geographic breadth of America preclude a common definition of what
is indecent, profane, or obscene. What may appear to be 'dirty
discourse' to some may be considered to be laudable satire to
others. In this fascinating book, renowned media scholars and
authors, Robert Hilliard and Michael Keith, examine the history and
nature of indecent program content in American radio.

* Examines the blue side of the airways with a first-ever
analysis of the history and nature of off-color program
content.

* Explores the treatment of once-forbidden topics in the
electronic media, investigating the beliefs, attitudes and actions
of those who present such material, those who condemn it, and those
who defend it.

* Written from a social and cultural perspective, concentrates on
the means of greatest distribution - radio, with its phenomenal
growth of "shock jocks" and rap music lyrics.

* Provides coverage of television and the Internet, showing how
and why broadcasting has evolved from the ribald antics of the
Roaring 20's to today's streaming cybersex, contrasting the
standards and actions of the FCC v. the First Amendment amidst the
over-the-air and in-the-court battles of over-the-top radio.

* Illustrates political pressures and legal considerations,
including Supreme Court decisions, and efforts to protect children
from media smut.