Why do the BBC use Roman numerals to define the date of their copyright?

Answer 1

...so people are "idiots and can't transliterate..." Say no more !^ ^ ^
However, I think the answer to this is that it was always done that way in the past, so now it's become a "tradition".

Answer 2

Because they don't want people to know how old the repeats are that they are showing (BBC producers etc. patronise the viewers and assume that most people are idiots and can't transliterate Roman numerals)

But they didn't always do it - I watched a re-run of 'Open All Hours' last night which showed the copyright date in plain figures - 1976

Answer 3

It's traditional, I guess. Even Hollywood movies use Roman numerals for the dates at the end of the credits!

Answer 4

They initially did that to look stylish, as that was what was done at the time. They continue it simply because it's a corporation tradition.

Another example, we in the military HAVE to wear hats outside (when in uniform) as this was made policy in the days when absolutely everyone wore a hat outside. It was considered a social taboo to go outside with the top of your head on show. We still do this today although there is really no need for it.

Answer 5

Because they want to make it as difficult as possible when it comes to working out what year repeats were actually first released! It makes us feel that we are getting our money's worth! (And if you believe that, you'll believe anything!)

Answer 6

Cos they're snobs and just want to confuse the hell out of everyone.

Answer 7

because they feel they are aneoclassical organisation....
but they are the best tv in the world on average

Answer 8

So that you find it harder to tell the old rubbish they are recycling.