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Behind the Bastards

CZM Rewind: Part Two: The Rush Limbaugh Episodes with Paul F. Tompkins

Jan 9, 2025
Paul F. Tompkins, a talented actor and comedian known for his sharp wit, returns to dissect the complex legacy of Rush Limbaugh. They dive into the effects of the Fairness Doctrine's repeal on modern media and discuss Limbaugh's satire, which often fueled negativity rather than humor. The conversation then critiques conservative rhetoric on social issues, revealing divisive undertones. The rise of hate during Obama's presidency is examined, highlighting Limbaugh's role in this troubling trend, before concluding with reflections on legacy and media's moral contradictions.
01:35:53

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The repeal of the Fairness Doctrine allowed Rush Limbaugh to flourish in a highly partisan media environment, shaping conservative discourse without accountability.
  • Limbaugh used humor and sensationalism to normalize bigotry, marketing misogyny and racism as strategies that resonated with disenfranchised audiences.

Deep dives

The Impact of the Fairness Doctrine

The Fairness Doctrine, which required balanced coverage of controversial issues, played a crucial role in shaping American media before its repeal in 1987. Its absence opened up the airwaves to a predominantly right-wing narrative, enabling figures like Rush Limbaugh to thrive in a more partisan landscape. Limbaugh recognized early on that his success was contingent upon the Fairness Doctrine's demise, leveraging his platform to mold public opinion without accountability to opposing viewpoints. The subsequent era of unchecked media bias allowed Limbaugh to dominate conservative discourse, perpetuating narratives that catered to his audience's prejudices.

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