Television: An International History - Hardcover

"Serious observers of the sociology of television will appreciate the breadth and depth of this history.... Intriguing issues are raised, particularly concerning the influence of this medium on contemporary society and vice versa."--Library Journal "What a terrific assembly of contributors....An important addition to documenting the global story of television in a single volume."--Journalism History "Serious observers of the sociology of television will appreciate the breadth and depth of this history.... Intriguing issues are raised, particularly concerning the influence of this medium on contemporary society and vice versa."--Library Journal "What a terrific assembly of contributors....An important addition to documenting the global story of television in a single volume."--Journalism History "Serious observers of the sociology of television will appreciate the breadth and depth of this history.... Intriguing issues are raised, particularly concerning the influence of this medium on contemporary society and vice versa."--Library Journal "What a terrific assembly of contributors....An important addition to documenting the global story of television in a single volume."--Journalism History "Serious observers of the sociology of television will appreciate the breadth and depth of this history.... Intriguing issues are raised, particularly concerning the influence of this medium on contemporary society and vice versa."--Library Journal "What a terrific assembly of contributors....An important addition to documenting the global story of television in a single volume."--Journalism History

From its earliest beginnings, television was destined to become one of the great new forces at work in the 20th century. This new edition (which includes six completely new chapters) greatly expands the original historical coverage of this influential cultural phenomenon. Written by a distinguished international team of specialists, the book describes the history of television from its technical conception in the 19th century right through to the bewildering multi-media developments of the present. Alongside this historical account, chapters provide important discussion of the central debates affecting television worldwide. All genres of programme making - news, sport, drama, comedy - are examined in the light of key questions: how viewing practices affect particular societies; how standards of taste and decency are arrived at; the influence of television on government power; the role of public service broadcasting; and the relationship of television to terrorism and violence.