The first edition came out shortly after the inception of cable TV in the early 1980s (Amazon incorrectly says the first edition was 1997) and Bagdikian was astute enough to identify the coming trend that ultimately jeopardizes what the 1st amendment was created to do -- protect freedom of speech. Citizens (who in the US have for years considered themselves consumers) don't realize how corporate control of the most powerful channels of communication put constraints on our ability to get accurate information. Bagdikian revised and updated the book several times, at several steps along the way until his dire prediction came true and there remained only 6 companies in charge of broadcasting (including internet) information throughout the world. It's a good book to start with to enhance one's media literacy. ( )