In the paper, the author formulates the thesis that in our times the role of journalism has been lost as the medium of informing about events, the popularisation of knowledge and forming positive cultural patterns. This happened as a result of a departure from a culture that refers to values. At present, the mass media create a consumerist culture, focused on short-term interests and living an ordinary life. This allows them to manipulate society for the sake of the interests of different groups. In order to overcome this state of affairs, which is unfavourable for society, it is necessary to return to the ideals of the Enlightenment and a culture appealing to values.