Horizon

Is there a problem with frivolous lawsuits lately? I wasn't aware that there was, notwithstanding the reports of astroturf front groups. Seems to be a reasonable summary of the issue here, though I haven't had time to read through it all. (Note that this is a "trial advocacy" organization. Best I could find in a hurry.)

Is there a problem with frivolous lawsuits lately?

Well, I was referencing Fox's foolish attempt to shut down Al Franken's book last year. I suppose MoveOn.org et al could argue the they started it defense, but I still think this kind of showboat lawsuit is counterproductive.

I think people are mad, desperate and perceive themselves as powerless, and when people are mad, desperate and perceive themselves as powerless, they'll use whatever means it takes, including frivolous lawsuits. And after watching ten minutes of Fox News when I visited Pittsburgh, I can sympathize with how powerless one feels in the midst 24/7 all right-wing, all the time. But I can't imagine how a futile nuisance lawsuit might be all that empowering, except to contribute to the smug self-satisfaction of both parties...

To correct a possible false impression, we are still allowed to turn off the Fox channel, and in fact are permitted not to subscribe to cable TV at all. But Graeme has a point. This may be obvious, but lawsuits are evidence that a conversation is broken to the point where nothing short of a lawsuit can settle it.

So what do you think of this one? (No clear opinion in my own mind but it seemed relevant.)

Dunno really. I suppose it depends on whether clearchannelsucks was really a 'protest site' or just a front for a rival company, but I didn't really have the patience to wade through all the legalese.

Here's another one.