Controversy not all bad

Published 11:36 am Monday, September 11, 2006

By Staff
Controversial television is something we have certainly become accustomed to since the first TV sets hit homes back in the 1950s.
I can remember hearing about the controversy surrounding Lucy Ricardo's pregnancy being highlighted during her long-running sitcom back in the 1950s.
I also remember folks talking about Marlo Thomas' character in &#8220That Girl.” Some folks didn't think it was too smart to show how an single adult female carried on in a big city during the '70s.
I probably don't even need to bring up the apparel worn by Bo and Luke Duke's cousin Daisy. Certainly we have all seen enough thigh to last a lifetime after watching just one episode of that show.
Then, just when everything seemed to calm down somewhat, along came &#8220Will and Grace.” Some people think the show was very funny. The show ended it's run at the end of last year's season to which many Christians are grateful. The show depicted a gay man and a heterosexual woman living together and sharing friendships with another gay man and what appeared to be an alcoholic pill-popper. More controversy.
I am amazed at shows that have caused some uproars over the years, and I am sure that the controversies will never end. Such is the way of society. Not everyone has the same opinions on every subject. And in the world of television, ratings take precedence over views and opinions a handful of people.
I mentioned controversies to touch on the subject of programs being aired this weekend and this week.
With the anniversary of 9/11, there have been shows made for theatrical release as well as broadcasts on national television networks that have caused a stir as well.
A program will air on ABC tonight and Monday called &#8220The Path to 9/11,” and it has caused a stir in the political arena.
It seems that President Clinton and former members of his administration are not very happy at the information depicted in the program. Of course, with those folks upset about the contents of the show, it makes me want to see it now more than ever. I do intend to watch the show and decide for myself.
Controversy over programming is common. I'm not sure that's a bad thing. At least it gives people an opportunity to express their views and opinions at the expense of Hollywood's decisions.
Controversy is described by Webster as a debate. Debating has gone on for ages and will continue long after you and I have gone on to our rewards.
Regardless of your opinion, you are entitled to it and have every right to express it. The events leading up to and following wars (also controversial) in which Americans have fought and given their lives, have given us that right.
Lisa Tindell is a news writer for The Brewton Standard. She can be reached at 867-4876 or by e-mail at lisa.tindell@brewtonstandard.com.