Television Broadcasting in Germany

Today was our first day of media appointments. We visited the office of Die Welt, Germany's third largest newspaper, as well as visiting RBB television and radio production studios/offices.

The broadcasting aspect of German media is an interesting one to say the least. The television system is similar to America, yet different. They have a system in place in which allows for different stations to be the primary provider of programming in different areas and cities. Similarly to America one could think of these as affiliates for a larger network. However, one of the major twists that exists is that the local stations all contribute to one nationwide network of programming, rather than the other way around. I found this to be interesting. I like the idea because it offers more jobs to people and allows for more diversity in programming.

Another thing I found interesting was Germany's use of television advertising, and the lack of it. It was explained today that all companies are funded by the public through a fee, provided by written law. This law forces all people who own a television or radio to pay a monthly fee. These stations are not allowed to generate revenue through advertising. They have certain things and times they may run advertisements, but they are few and far between.

Again this can be a good thing for television viewers and the people in general, but leads me to ponder these questions.

If advertising is primarily not allowed on television, where do advertising companies advertise to generate revenue for their clients? Also, how would this effect American culture if rules and laws were in place so that television was funded by the people and not permitted to use commercials for revenue?