Progress of information and computer technologies and internet development as factors of public opinion formation

In the article the features of influence of information and computer technologies of the beginning of the XXIth century on the process of public opinion formation have been considered. The major factors of functionality and dysfunctionality of communication system of the modern society affecting the consciousness of people in the aspect of formation of aims, views and beliefs are analyzed. The article is focused on the determination of sociocultural reality by the tools of mass communication.