Editorials and responses at WGN Chicago 1972–1980: A forum for public issues of controversy

Abstract

Sixty transcripts of editorials and responses to editorials broadcast over WGN Chicago were sampled for each of the years 1972–1980. Topics of the transcripts focussed upon local topics of controversy, regularly stimulating responses from the public and calling for action by government and by other institutions. The forum resulting from this practice has brought into the arena of public discussion contributions from business and professional groups as well as citizens groups which might not otherwise be able to reach significant parts of the Chicago public.