Meaning: The quote "The public gets not one penny from them in return for those airwaves" by Robert McChesney is a powerful statement that addresses the issue of corporate control over public airwaves and the lack of direct benefits to the public. In this quote, McChesney is pointing out the disparity between the use of public airwaves by corporations and the lack of compensation or tangible returns for the public. This quote is significant in the context of media and communication policy, as it sheds light on the complex dynamics of ownership and access to the airwaves.

Robert McChesney is a prominent media critic and scholar who has written extensively on media, communication, and the political economy of the media industry. He is known for his critical analysis of media ownership, corporate influence, and the implications of these factors on democracy and public interest. In this quote, McChesney is drawing attention to the fact that the airwaves, which are a public resource, are utilized by private corporations for broadcasting and communication purposes without directly benefiting the public.

The concept of airwaves as a public resource dates back to the early days of radio and television broadcasting. The electromagnetic spectrum, which encompasses the airwaves used for wireless communication and broadcasting, is considered a public good and is regulated by government agencies in many countries. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is responsible for regulating the use of the airwaves and issuing licenses to broadcasters.

One of the key principles underlying the regulation of the airwaves is the notion that they belong to the public and should be used in the public interest. This principle is often referred to as the "public interest, convenience, and necessity" standard, which guides the FCC in its decision-making regarding broadcast licenses and regulations. However, McChesney's quote suggests that despite being a public resource, the airwaves are utilized by corporations without providing direct benefits or compensation to the public.

The issue raised in the quote has significant implications for media policy and the democratic functioning of society. The control and ownership of the airwaves have a direct impact on the diversity of voices, the quality of information, and the accessibility of media and communication services. When private corporations dominate the airwaves without providing tangible benefits to the public, there is a risk of media consolidation, limited diversity of viewpoints, and the prioritization of commercial interests over public service.

Furthermore, the lack of direct compensation to the public for the use of the airwaves raises questions about equity and fairness. While broadcasters and telecommunications companies profit from their use of the airwaves through advertising revenues and subscription fees, the public, as the rightful owners of this resource, may not receive a commensurate return. This raises important questions about the allocation of public resources and the accountability of corporations that benefit from them.

In conclusion, Robert McChesney's quote "The public gets not one penny from them in return for those airwaves" highlights the unequal relationship between corporations and the public in the use of public airwaves. This quote underscores the need for critical examination of media ownership, regulation, and the public interest in the context of communication policy. It serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that the use of public resources such as the airwaves aligns with the principles of equity, diversity, and the public interest.