In short, it is about control, including thought control.
That is one of the main reasons I do not watch television programming, including news. You are pigeonholed into what they want you to see, what is considered to be humor, and what is considered to news, and how they want you to see it.
I find it so irritating I can’t even walk by a television that is on without feeling irritation. Especially in an airport.
When I go into a restaurant or bar, I specifically ask for seating as far away from any television as possible.