> > I think the FCC needs to stop worrying about something as
> > unimporant as Janet's Jackson's breast and declare
> > infomercials and televagilists illegal. Networks such as
> > QVC, HSN, ShopNBC, Shop@Home, WSS, etc would still be
> > allowed because these are not infomercials and they're
> more
> > intelligent than infomericals.
> >
> As much as I can see your side I have a couple of comments.
>
>
> Infomercials exist for one reason. They make money. Like
> SPAM, it works. In 2004 it was reported around 15% of people
> who received some SPAM bought some product from them.
>
> Televangalists on the other hand, I view slightly different.
> As hurtful and a mean as their comments can sometimes be,
> when all is said and done, let's face it they are just
> speaking their minds.
>
> Unlike Infomercials which exist to make a profit. In fact
> IGIA one of the largest infomercial providers makes their
> money from shipping and handling. You will notice a simply
> "Eyebrow trimmer" carries nearly $8.00 s&h. They also give
> you a "Free" robe, towel, make up case, and mirror. Of
> course ALL those items YOU PAY s&H for.
>
> And while IGIA has a liberal return policy they DO NOT
> refund S&H.
>
> So a lot of informercials are very "gray." Think Don Lapre
> and Kevin Trudeau. Both have been subject to many legal
> fines. They pay them and come back.
>
> I think there is a definate lack of quality programming. But
> let's face it who is demanding it?
>
> Unfortunately the reasoning behind deregulation has gotten
> lost and we have wound up not with more product, but the
> SAME product repeated.
>
Any more fines like this (if indeed they stick) and don't be suprised if a few stations in the Central and Moutain zones decide to drop network afilliation and make their money with infomercials, home shopping or both.