Hypodermic Needle Theory Today

I believe that this theory occurs on a day-to-day basis and all of us are witnesses to it and never even know it.  Unlike the 1930’s, media is a part of our daily lives.  Every turn we make, whether driving down the highway, walking down the street, reading the newspaper, or turning on our TV, we are being exposed to some form of media.  It feels that sometimes we are constantly being informed how to look better, feel better, save money etc.  I feel that the theory is in some ways accurate, but at the same time this proverbial hypodermic needle is also a communication tool.  Instead of being looked at as influencing individuals, it can be viewed as a tool to attract attention, spark interest, explain ideas, trigger emotions, create desire, initiate action, or influence what people feel and remember.   The theory can be looked at in two ways I guess.  One being that we are being controlled by corporate media or two, that corporate media is simply trying to sell a product or service in a creative way that will leave a mark in our mind.