In the past the channels were controlled by more centralized powers. So it depended more on the integrity and ability of those powers. Often, they were abused.

In the past the channels were controlled by more centralized powers. So it depended more on the integrity and ability of those powers. Often, they were abused. But at the same time, central entities are considerably more knowledgeable than individuals. The CDC is a rational source of information about COVID - even if it's not perfect. Your average neighbour is a very bad source. We now live an era wherein the immediate payoff for hustling lies or partial lies is much greater than the act of having constant integrity, wherein the payoff is much longer, possibly even not even within a single lifetime, i.e. it takes decades of conscientious behaviour within groups to advance civilization.