COMMENTARY: From Radio Static to Artificial Intelligence: An Old Lesson for a New Technology

Sep 15, 2026 at 09:50 am


COMMENTARY - Artificial intelligence may be one of the newest technologies reshaping our world, but the debate over how to control a rapidly advancing industry is anything but new. Dr. Larry Burris, an MTSU Professor in Journalism, said that nearly a century ago, another revolutionary technology was born - - commercial radio. It grew so quickly that industry leaders ultimately turned to the federal government for help bringing order to the chaos. In this commentary, we look back at the early days of broadcasting and ask whether the lessons that helped tame the airwaves could offer a roadmap for regulating AI today... Listen to more from Dr. Burriss HERE

About Dr. Burriss - Dr. Larry Burriss is a highly accomplished professor of journalism with extensive experience in both academia and professional media. He teaches introductory journalism courses, media law, and quantitative research methods at the graduate level.

His academic credentials are impressive, holding five degrees:

Dr. Burriss has a distinguished career in print and broadcast news, public relations, and academic research. He has published extensively in both scholarly and popular publications, covering topics such as presidential press conferences, NASA photography, radio news, adolescent social media use, legal research, and even studies on Middle Earth.

In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Burriss has held numerous leadership roles, including director of the School of Journalism, dean of the College of Mass Communication, and president of the MTSU Faculty Senate. His contributions to the state include being appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen to serve on the Tennessee Board of Regents.

A decorated professional, Dr. Burriss has won first place in the Tennessee Associated Press Radio Contest nine times. He also has a distinguished military background, serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force. His active-duty service included deployments to Mali, Somalia, Bosnia, Central America, Europe, and the Pentagon.

Dr. Burriss continues to inspire students and colleagues with his vast knowledge, experience, and dedication to the field of journalism and media studies.

 

 

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