Please.
Yes I understand that he--and the rest of the shock jocks--boost ratings, which increases ad revenues, which increase media profits, which expand the availability of media outlets, which expands the possibility of democratic government, which makes the sky bluer and flowers sweeter smelling and puppies cuter and reduces acne, but still...
His recent comments--which have dominated mainstream media and the blogosphere--are hardly the only controversial statements he's made over the years. Yet his radio and television program has become (perhaps that ought to be past tense) a necessary stop for most political players over the past few years.
Why is he taken seriously? And add to the mix the range of talking heads whose careers are based on mean, shrill commentary. They only have a platform because we build it for them. We pay attention.
Why?
