ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Influence of mass media

Mass media is all the ways people get information, such as TV, newspapers, radio, and the Internet. It can influence people by giving information that shapes their opinions, beliefs, and ideas. Mass media tells people what to think, what to buy, and how to act. For example, if you see a TV commercial for a fancy new computer, you may want to go buy it. If a magazine article tells you that a certain type of food is healthy, you will be more likely to choose it the next time you go to the store. Mass media is powerful and can shape many people's ideas about the world.