The transformation of American media from a diverse ecosystem of independent voices into a concentrated industry dominated by a handful of corporate giants represents one of the most significant yet underappreciated developments in modern democracy. This consolidation has fundamentally altered the relationship between information and power, creating a system where corporate interests can effectively control public discourse while maintaining the appearance of journalistic independence.
The scope of media consolidation becomes clear when examining the ownership structures of major news outlets. Six corporations now control roughly ninety percent of American media, a dramatic concentration from the dozens of independent companies that dominated the landscape just a few decades ago. This consolidation spans traditional media like television, radio, and newspapers, while extending into digital platforms that increasingly serve as primary news sources for younger generations.