I also think there are lots of parallels in how the media functions in the wizarding world. The Daily Prophet regularly slanders people then when the truth comes out acts like it had nothing to do with it. Mrs Weazly believes the Witch Weekly article about Harry and Hermione in Goblet of Fire even though she could have easily ASKED them if it was true. Everyone is quick to believe something nasty, but doesn't want to believe the truth if it goes against what the majority is saying or might make them uncomfortable.