The public needs to wake up from their celebrity-induced coma and focus on the real issues.

Ain't that the truth!!

why the state built 21 new prisons, and only one new university from 1984 to 1996.
million dollar question!

"why the state built 21 new prisons, and only one new university from 1984 to 1996."

Because prisons aren't debated in the political arena; you don't hear politicians make campaign promises that they will ensure 21 new prisons will be built. You hear that they're dedicated to making plans to have meetings to talk about improving the education system. That way, nothing gets done because everyone is too busy arguing over stupid sh*t.

Since prisons aren't as much of a hot topic, the work just gets done.

That's just my viewpoint.

What is being missed is the fact that the media is generating the event. If Hilton's jail time is important because the media says so just think of the power they have to suppress news that really is important. Next time you watch the news look at the way they focus on certain aspects of the story. Then think about all the news stories that are out there but are not 'worthy' of coverage because it won't sell to viewers. What does sell to viewers is what they choose to promote thus creating interest in that subject.
You are being manipulated!