Disney blocking release of new Michael Moore film

[JoeRedskin]

Originally Posted by JWsleep

Also, corporate censorship does exist. A very small group of media companies controls most of the major avenues of speech in this country, and they have an inordinant amount of control over what actually reaches the general public. I think the internet helps, but watch out for corporations influencing the government to restrict that access.

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Also, I'm not saying that Disney has to distribute the film, but then they should release Moore to find new distribution in the US.

JW, I agree with your first point -

Because media corporations have a vested interest in pleasing the public, they will tend to follow a strategy that, at best, is non-controversial and, at worst, feeds the lowest common denominator. In doing so, they can and do self censor, refuse to produce, or otherwise inhibit the production of controversial or fringe (either fringe) materials. As a result, these corporations can limit public access and, thus, limit public awareness of conflicting viewpoints. I agree that, as citizens, we have a duty to be informed and to look beyond the simple paff fed us by those who have an interest in giving us information we find pleasing.

-(One of my favorite Calvin and Hobbes cartoons has Calvin asking "Marx said 'Religion is the opiate of the masses' I wonder what that means?" To which the TV replies "He hadn't seen anything yet")-

As to the second:

I seriously doubt Disney held a gun to Moore's head and forced him to sign with the company. It's Disney for God's sake; one of the most image conscience corporations out there. What? Did he mistakenly think they were some radical independent going to give him free reign? No, he knew they were a big corp that could give him plenty of what he craves - exposure.

He made choices too - Now he has to live with them.