The difference is that media and information were typically centralized and authoritative. When the newsperson told you to do something, it was typically authoritative because they were likely getting it from the government or trusted source. Which in a negative way, was seen with how popular smoking was until the 1980's and 90's. You had doctors, with their lab coats talking about what cigarette they preferred. People thought, "Why would doctors lie?"

With cable and the internet, there is now more information available (good thing) and more democratized (good thing) BUT there is also more space for pieces of shit like Fox, OANN, Newsmax, etc... to lie and spread disinformation (bad thing).

In order for information to be decentralized in a good, healthy, and productive way, people have to be more educated (no, not in a university way, though it helps) in critical thinking, identifying reputable sources, and spotting propaganda and false information.