Messages With a Mission, Embedded in TV Shows

Among the many wonderful ways the The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation spends money for good causes, one of their projects is less well known: Influencing public attitude through popular TV shows.

It is less well known as a behind-the-scenes influencer of public attitudes by helping to shape story lines and insert messages into popular entertainment like the television shows “ER,” “Law & Order: SVU” and “Private Practice.” The foundation’s messages on H.I.V. prevention, surgical safety and the spread of infectious diseases have found their way into these shows.

Now the Gates Foundation is set to expand its involvement and spend more money on influencing popular culture through a deal with Viacom.

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emily | 7:19 PM | The impact of TV series on society |
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