As mentioned, half of the world is of below average intelligence. Unfortunately, the average is in decline. Almost everyone in Western civilisation has access to the internet (whether it be at home, internet cafes or libraries), and in turn, they have access to near infinite information. They have televisions with around 1000 channels, with something on offer for everyone.

The problem (not so bad problem) is that people have the choice of what they want to know. They can watch National Geographic, or they can watch MTV; they can watch the History channel, or they can watch ITV1 (U.S. equivalent possibly Fox?). They can read tabloids or they can read broadsheets. They can visit wikipedia, or they can visit LPSG. It's entirely up to the individual whether they want to learn something new, or simply be entertained. Current affairs are viewed by the majority in colourful tabloids with a picture of Britney on the front page.

I can guarantee that people in Britain are just as ignorant towards knowledge as any American. This thread should've been about the Western attitude towards modern policies.

Governments don't want a public who are capable of questioning their movements. Just keep entertaining us 24 hours a day and we'll keep quiet ;)