Imus

So here's my thing: I don't listen to Imus. I don't think he's funny, I don't like his cowboy hat, or his show. I don't like what he said a couple of weeks ago. But, really...fired? For making a joke in poor taste? I used to listen to "The Don and Mike Show," and I can pretty much guarantee that they said similar crude/rude things. I know Howard Stern did when he was on public airwaves. How many music projects are inflamatory, sexist, racist, or just crude? How many television shows that are shown on ABC, CBS, and NBC contain similar or worse comments and commentary on our world? CBS has fired Imus for his comments, saying something to the effect of "we feel that what he said is wrong and we don't want the CBS name being associated with such language and rhetoric." If that is the case, then I look forward to CBS going through their entire stable of music, television, and radio, and removing other shows and artists from their posts in order to maintain a positive image for CBS.

However, this also brings up an issue of free speech. Was what Imus said offensive? Yes. Was it inappropriate? Yes. Was it illegal? ...not so much. Doesn't our constitution provide for us to say what we want? My understanding has always been kind of a "your right to swing your fist ends at my nose" type of thing. Words hurt, but they are allowed. If the members of the Rutgers basketball team wish to sue Imus for libel (or is it slander? My "Spider-Man" lesson in freedom of the press is limited...), then I say go for it. You may have a case. But CBS censoring him just seems wrong to me for some reason. Slap him with a fine. Suspend him. But is Imus really the straw that broke the camel's back? Really? Imus? I would have hoped for something bigger than a man talking without thinking. Obviously, I have differing opinions swirling around in my head. As a Christian, I feel that I should applaud CBS for taking a stand. But if that is the case, then should I find movies like MALLRATS or OLD SCHOOL enjoyable? Should I laugh at crude humor if I'm going to act offended when it's said in the context of "real" life?

Sheesh -- I'm ranting about something that I told my wife I didn't care about! Maybe I just need to take a breath...