Although it is not well known to most citizens, one reason the quality of news available has decreased is that the media have become controlled by fewer and fewer corporations, the result of many mergers and buyouts over the past three or so decades. Since the Federal Communications Commission loosened the regulations regarding ownership of newspapers, radio stations, and television stations, the concentration of media in fewer and fewer hands has been accelerating,
Mid 20th Century- Thousands of independent media outlets
1983- Only 50 companies
Late 2004- 90% of all media companies in the United States were controlled by just 5 companies.
1. Time Warner 2. Disney 3. News Corp.
4. General Electric 5. Viacom
Mid 20th Century- Thousands of independent media outlets
1983- Only 50 companies
Late 2004- 90% of all media companies in the United States were controlled by just 5 companies.
1. Time Warner 2. Disney 3. News Corp.
4. General Electric 5. Viacom