I don't mind if somebody strains credulity a bit in passionate argument. But Rabbi Jonathan R. Katz, writing in the Journal Gazette this morning, really goes overboard in his zeal to push billboard restrictions in Fort Wayne. I concede his point that no one has proved how much signs add to the economic activity of the city. But his argument that restricting billboard size and placement could so add to the quality of life in the city that it actually attracts business is some stretch, especially when he throws in things like:
- Family values: "Why should we expect our children to maintain high standards, to honor parents and teachers, to respect themselves and each other and to not be indifferent when they are constantly exposed to the aesthetic disregard to which their streets and neighborhoods have been subjected?" So, how does that work, exactly? A kid sees one too many big, ugly billboards, snaps, then starts doing drugs cussin' out Grandma?
- Community rights. Some will argue, Katz, says, that "preserving individual property rights is more important than protecting aesthetic character." But he's having none of that nonsense. There are the rights of those who planned this city to have a collective vision and purpose. And the right to travel under scenic railroad overpasses without having to be bombarded with signs "that smother their visual appeal." And this, my favorite: "What about the rights of beautiful brick buildings that are now plastered over with billboards . . .?" I have despaired sometimes in trying to convince some people that animals, while deserving our consideration, cannot have "rights" in the sense we normally use that word. Never did I think I would have to argue against a brick building having rights.
I confess, as if you couldn't guess, that I fall more on the "let people advertise in the marketplace" side of the argument. Some sensible restrictions on size and placement, yes. But I drive around this town a lot and haven't noticed that billboard blight is a special problem. Perhaps I am inattentive or have become numb to the problem. (Watch out, Grandma.)
But if the issue doesn't go quite my way, I'm certainly not going to argue that Western civilization will fall as a result.
