Our media system is dominated by a few massive corporations that control most of what North Americans see, hear and read. These corporations and their allies say that this system delivers more high-quality information and entertainment than ever before. However, many critics believe that media consolidation does not serve the interests of media consumers and in fact poses dangers to our society. They charge that:
1. Big Media deliver content that is less diverse, less local, and less oriented to the public interest than small or independent media.
2. Big Media don’t provide the information and perspectives people need to participate fully in decision-making.
3. Advertising and marketing have permeated all aspects of our culture, elevating commercial values above all others.
4. The consolidation of media ownership, together with new technology and increased demand for data from government and business, creates new and increased threats to personal privacy.
5. The consolidation of media ownership, mostly in the hands of wealthy white men, increases class, race, and gender oppression in our society.
6. Control of media gives a few corporations enormous political power.
This kit examines these charges and provides resources for further investigation.

Included in the Media Literacy Toolbox DVD-ROM.