More information, less knowledge?

We are surrounded by information being presented to us in a multitude of ways. Indeed the term "Information Overload" has been often used to describe how we seem to be drowning in a torrent of information. Yet we seem to be less certain of our knowledge, and more reluctant to take the information at face value. Possibly the more effort expended in publicity campaigns may be having the reverse effect. People appear to be suspicious, and look for the 'hidden agenda'. Belief in conspiracy theories looks to be growing in certain sections of the population.
Everyone is looking for solutions to the problems they see around them, but many are not sure where to turn.

I am prompted in these musings, as I ponder a reworking of the training manual to be used for new staff in our department. Sometimes newcomers bring useful new ideas, but sometimes they reject what is already working just because it is forced upon them.