George Carlin Would Be Proud

The late comedian and social commentator did a famous routine called "The Seven Dirty Words." These were words that the Federal Communication Commission, which regulates the airwaves for the public good, deemed too vulgar for broadcasters to use under any circumstances. Why these words, Carlin wondered. Laughter and thought followed.

Since 2004, television and radio broadcasters have been fined for letting "fleeting expletives" onto their broadcasts. A fleeting expletive is generally unscripted and unexpected by the broadcaster. Awards shows, sporting events, or news stories covered live may occasionally have fleeting expletives uttered by a losing pitcher, a flood victim, or a potty-mouthed celebrity.

A federal appeals court said broadcasters shouldn't have to be responsible for fleeting expletives. For now, the Seven Dirty Words remain off limits in broadcasters' scripts, but perhaps that will face serious challenge in the near future. NPR reports.