The romans figured that shit out a while ago already: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_and_circuses
In a political context, the phrase means to generate public approval, not by excellence in public service or public policy, but by diversion, distraction, or by satisfying the most immediate or base requirements of a populace [...]
Yeah thats what i was insinuating. We just forgot how to collectively give a fuck, which is crazy considering how much more connected we are with live information about all the horrendous shit that the rich and powerful are doing.