The media definitely has a large influence on people and the choices we make. Probably larger than most of you think. Where do we get most of the information that we base our everyday choices on? Most get it from the media, few sit and read scientific studies, etc.
Is this a problem? It can be, as long as the media stays fairly objective it isn't, but who makes sure they do? Most newspapers, news channels rely on us for their survival, they need us to read and watch. How can they do that? By giving us what we want and that isn't necessarily the truth or the whole truth. They also rely on sponsors and advertisement which can also affect their objectivity.
Considering how large the media's influence is and how much of what we know comes from the media, I find it a bit disturbing that a large private organization like Murdoch's News Corporation has such control over what we get to see.
News Corporation - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Rant over.