The closer we get to election day, the louder and more boisterous candidates and their supporters behave.
With the advent of television and national networks, the boisterousity becomes louder and more aggressive daily, even to the level of ignoring truth.
Not that truth was ever crucial in political campaigning.
But before television and its nationwide networks, false claims or even those of questionable value, were mostly regional -- if that much.
Moreover, early regulation of broadcast licensing was more critical of half-truth, lies or even biased reports.
That was back in the day when many regions had only one or two -- if any -- TV stations accessible, and they were based in the largest nearby city. In addition, their programming reflected the interests and preferences of urban believers. Suburban and rural viewers saw mostly programs aimed at the majority of viewers -- those who had enough money to respond to advertising.
Politics has not changed, and corruption remains a problem, especially in cities. In addition, bigotry causes violence.
In past decades, newcomers struggled for acceptance, often because of prejudice from those whose ancestors came to America much earlier.
"We were here first," was the motto and justification for demands that they were entitled to seniority and preferential treatment.
But we don't hear that from the Algonquin, the Lenape and people of the many other tribes who were here before European pilgrims.
With the advent of television and national networks, the boisterousity becomes louder and more aggressive daily, even to the level of ignoring truth.
Not that truth was ever crucial in political campaigning.
But before television and its nationwide networks, false claims or even those of questionable value, were mostly regional -- if that much.
Moreover, early regulation of broadcast licensing was more critical of half-truth, lies or even biased reports.
That was back in the day when many regions had only one or two -- if any -- TV stations accessible, and they were based in the largest nearby city. In addition, their programming reflected the interests and preferences of urban believers. Suburban and rural viewers saw mostly programs aimed at the majority of viewers -- those who had enough money to respond to advertising.
Politics has not changed, and corruption remains a problem, especially in cities. In addition, bigotry causes violence.
In past decades, newcomers struggled for acceptance, often because of prejudice from those whose ancestors came to America much earlier.
"We were here first," was the motto and justification for demands that they were entitled to seniority and preferential treatment.
But we don't hear that from the Algonquin, the Lenape and people of the many other tribes who were here before European pilgrims.
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