The Erosion of Trust in Media: 1976-1996

This chapter chronicles the decline of public trust in American mass media from 1976 to 1996, pinpointing key events such as the launch of CNN and the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine. It investigates the rise of conservative media figures like Rush Limbaugh and the establishment of Fox News, which fostered a polarized environment and contributed to the shift towards individual content creators. The chapter highlights the significant impact of right-wing media ownership and funding on political narratives, illustrating the evolving media landscape and the importance of discerning information sources.