You’re right that media coverage needs to be scrutinized however I’d argue it’s easier said than done. We’re barraged by a constant onslaught of information far more than we have the time or energy to process. This problem is compounded by our tribal tendencies, which politicians exploit by flooding the discourse with empty controversies while quietly pushing through more sinister actions.

This dynamic also helps explain why disadvantaged populations are often less informed or politically engaged. When daily life is a struggle for survival, scrutinizing this week’s partisan bill or police skirmish inevitably falls lower on the priority list.