So what the media do, in effect, is to take the set of assumptions which express the basic ideas of the propaganda system, whether about the Cold War or the economic system or the "national interest" and so on, and then present a range of debate within that framework-so the debate only enhances the strength of the assumptions, ingraining them in people's minds as the entire possible spectrum of opinion that there is.
In his work, Noam Chomsky emphasizes how media shape public perception by framing discussions around a set of predetermined assumptions inherent in the propaganda system. These assumptions cover various topics, including the Cold War, the economy, and the concept of national interest. By presenting debates within this established framework, the media fails to challenge the underlying ideas, instead reinforcing them as the range of acceptable opinions. This creates an illusion of diversity in viewpoints while actually perpetuating a narrow perspective.
This process serves to deeply embed these assumptions in the public consciousness, suggesting that the media's role is not merely to inform but to maintain a status quo that aligns with specific ideological beliefs. As a result, individuals may come to view these perspectives as the full spectrum of acceptable thought, limiting critical analysis and genuine dialogue about alternative ideas. Chomsky's insights highlight the need for awareness of how media can manipulate perceptions and the importance of questioning the narratives presented to us.
