I saw the media go into a feeding frenzy for days when a certain prominent figure passed away.
I understand the sentiment that one must not speak ill of the dead but to elevate a person into sainthood via media is taking it too far.

The sentiments that a person is dead and cannot defend themselves is true. We, out of respect for the dead, recall their good deeds but surely media should present a balanced unbiased view of both the good and the bad? It is one thing to recall the good at the memorial service but what about all the follow on documentaries? Then only conclusion I could draw from the information presented was very distorted and one sided.

The cruncher of the whole event was high jacked by another individual who was a total fraud. Most of us do not understand sign language and his gestures were meaningless. However, the deaf community saw through the sham and exposed him for what he was.

This should stand out as a bright beacon in your mind. The majority of viewers were fooled by what was being said but certain individuals saw through the charade.

Main Stream Media is very selective in their reporting which creates an environment of distrust, disinformation and manipulation.
Media is controlled by like-minded shareholders who in turn have specific views on certain subjects which their publication / channel present.
Today, with our blog and web driven media cycle, nothing can escape exaggeration, distortion, fabrication and simplification.

If you practice this, you will not be fooled again.

Do not let the media pull your strings and enslave your mind by your refusal to question and validate.

Actively seek out other sources that verify or refute the information even though it may go against your point of view.

Do not be manipulated by words, thoughts, characters and stories that use the emotional side of your brain.

Use the logical reasoning side of your brain.

Use your critical skills and objectivity.

Ask what is the agenda behind the story.