The only solace is that history shows that the many will eventually triumph (temporarily) over the few. A system based on deceit, cronyism and tyranny is doomed to collapse. The media need to be a democratizing influence somehow (like, say, call bullshit loud and clear when they smell it). Murdoch has technological advantages that make him Hearst on steroids, so he's been able to exploit far more people than anyone has ever dreamed. But, I'm a firm believer that the truth >> lies, however the truth is the tortoise to the hare that is lies. This isn't ideological, but rather that lies necessitate bigger lies to justify and sustain them. Eventually, the whoppers have to get so out of proportion that even the most gullible among us can't believe them. The fact that Fox News hit a ten year ratings low this week heartens me, but its a small step in the right (left?) direction.