7 Words You Can’t Say on Television: 50 Years Later, Do They Still Matter?

Fifty years ago, comedian George Carlin famously outlined the “7 words you can’t say on television.” While broadcast TV still adheres to these restrictions, the rise of cable, streaming, and social media has significantly diminished their impact. This article explores the evolution of free speech in the digital age and examines whether these seven words still hold the same power they once did.

From Broadcast Bans to Online Freedom: The Shifting Landscape of Censorship

In 1972, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) wielded considerable power over public discourse, regulating what could be said on the limited airwaves available. Carlin’s routine highlighted the potential threat of government censorship to free expression. Today, the FCC’s jurisdiction remains confined to broadcast television, leaving cable channels, streaming services, and online platforms largely unregulated. This shift has fundamentally altered the landscape of free speech.

George Carlin in 1972, the year he introduced the “7 words you can’t say on television.”

The Rise of Self-Censorship in the Age of Social Media

While government restrictions have loosened, a new form of censorship has emerged: self-censorship. Fear of social or professional repercussions now leads many Americans to refrain from expressing their opinions freely. Studies indicate a significant increase in self-censorship compared to previous eras, raising concerns about the chilling effect on open dialogue. Ironically, the very platforms that empower individuals to share their views also contribute to this phenomenon.

The Power of the Platform: Social Media as Gatekeeper

Social media companies, while expanding opportunities for free speech, have become gatekeepers in their own right. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook establish and enforce their own content policies, often influenced by user preferences and the desire to maintain a broadly appealing environment. This power to moderate content, while intended to foster positive user experience, can also be used to silence dissenting voices or promote specific narratives. The ongoing debate surrounding content moderation highlights the complexities of balancing free speech with responsible platform governance.

Social media platforms have become powerful gatekeepers in the digital age.

The Legacy of the 7 Words: A Symbol of Evolving Free Speech

Despite the changing media landscape, the “7 words you can’t say on television” remain a potent symbol of the ongoing struggle for free expression. While their impact on broadcast television may have diminished, they serve as a reminder of the importance of challenging censorship in all its forms. The digital age has ushered in unprecedented opportunities for individuals to share their voices, but it has also introduced new challenges to navigate. The future of free speech depends on our ability to embrace the potential of online platforms while mitigating the risks of self-censorship and platform-driven control.

From FCC to User: The Decentralization of Censorship Power

The FCC’s power to control speech has diminished as technology has advanced. The proliferation of online platforms has decentralized censorship power, shifting it from a government agency to individual users and platform operators. This shift raises important questions about the role of government, private companies, and individuals in shaping the future of free speech. The internet, with its vast and diverse landscape, has fundamentally changed the rules of the game. While the FCC still regulates broadcast television, its influence pales in comparison to the collective power of users and platforms in shaping online discourse.

Conclusion: Free Speech in the Digital Age – A Continuing Evolution

The “7 words you can’t say on television” serve as a historical marker in the ongoing evolution of free speech. While the specific words themselves may have lost some of their shock value, the underlying issues of censorship and free expression remain as relevant as ever. The digital age presents both unprecedented opportunities and new challenges. As we navigate this evolving landscape, it is crucial to remain vigilant in defending the principles of free speech and ensuring that all voices have the opportunity to be heard.

Casey Mattox, senior vice president of legal and judicial strategy at Americans for Prosperity, and Neil Chilson, former chief technologist for the FTC and senior fellow at Stand Together, contributed to this article.