> that news is important is also a "need" created by advertising, so that, .... they can show more ads :). You don't consider the news to be an essential part

> that news is important is also a "need" created by advertising, so that, .... they can show more ads :). You don't consider the news to be an essential part of a democracy? I've said enough about why I believe advertising is a net positive, so I'm not gonna retread that part. But question the value of "the 5th estate" to society? That's a whole other level.