Science, Media Balance and Debate

Radio National's Science show had an interesting report into BBC science broadcasting by Steve Jones. While I agree with most of the points he raised one thing I do disagree with is the need to continue vigorous discussion on science as it affects public policy, politics etc. Even if there are 1500 scientists who agree with a particular point of science, we do need to allow debate by the "non-believers" and proper skeptics. Quite often these debates illuminate the hysteria and self-serving approach of the anti-argument. The fact that the discussions are skillfully manipulated and debated at a level of hysteria should be fairly obvious to most listeners/viewers.
Or am I showing ignorance of how sophisticated these fear campaigns are and how many people do not have either the education, honesty or skill level to determine when they are being manipulated?
So how do we teach this to our youngsters? Or more pertinent in the days of the baby-boomers ageing, how do we teach this to your mothers, fathers & grandparents. And in today's "me society" how do we change the vested interest of big business and politics in our society.
Oh yes! Ask Andrew Wilkie, Adam Bandt, Bob Brown et al!