Which industry was specifically mentioned as deregulated since the 1980s?

The telecommunications industry is recognized as having undergone significant deregulation since the 1980s, marking a pivotal shift in how communications services are delivered and managed. The deregulation process began with the breaking up of AT&T's monopoly in 1982, allowing for greater competition by enabling new companies to enter the market. This change encouraged innovation, reduced prices, and expanded services as competing firms emerged, making it easier for consumers to access telecommunications technology.

In contrast, sectors like agriculture, construction, and healthcare have seen varying degrees of regulation, but they did not experience the same sweeping deregulation that characterized the telecommunications industry during that period. For instance, agriculture has been influenced by government price supports and subsidies, while healthcare has remained heavily regulated in terms of pricing and service delivery to maintain quality and access. Thus, the telecommunications sector stands out as the most prominently deregulated industry since the 1980s, ushering in an age of expanded consumer choice and technological advancement.