http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-974608.mp3
Macomb, IL – The panelists talk about an FCC report that suggests news outlets could make money from on-line ad tracking.
A story in the Washington DC weekly The Hill said the agency found huge challenges to the future of local news. The FCC said "behavioral advertising" - ie, targeted ads - could play a key role in making hometown journalism profitable.
The panelists recognize the tracking of consumer habits and preferences is happening and will continue. But they don't like it.
Among other things, they question how someone can grow and develop if all the advertising and programming he/she receives is designed to match his/her tastes. There would be no chance to stumble across something new - and enjoyable - by pure chance.