I would never argue there are no problems with the system. This isn't about a system but individual choices towards media and entertainment.
In this context I say each man and woman makes their own choices. No system is making you watch Larry the Cable Guy or fawn over the exploits of Paris Hilton.
Sometimes it is easier to blame a faceless system than asking individuals to face their choices.
I think we have a situation with a little from column A and a little from column B. I believe it's largely a cultural problem where American culture has been largely replaced by pop culture. And, sadly, failing to conform to the pop culture phenomenon is met with ridicule. We are, therefore, allowing people (especially youth) to be conditioned to be idiots. Until popular culture embraces knowledge again. Soon I hope.