Isn't there a public interest in providing a broader range of ideas, than just what folks will willingly accept? I always return to the big picture issue, to paraphrase Clinton's '92 campaign slogan, "It's the Democracy stupid!" It may be a bit short-sighted to assume that the media should just 'reflect' the public's mood and attitudes. I think the media should challenge and demand more of its consumers, than merely appeal to the lowest common denominator.

Here in the states, we consistently have the lowest voter turnout of the developed world. I can't help but believe that this is correlated with the diminished scope of 'acceptable' opinion allowed on our airwaves, and in the 'establishment' press. It's a bit ironic that the nation most associated with 'free markets', has the most stunted depth of opinion and political choice nearly anywhere, outside of one-party states.