20th Century Media and the American Psyche: A Strange Love

The book 20th Century Media and the American Psyche explores how media technologies have replicated intimacy, regularity, and reciprocity in our relationships, changing the communication environment, culture, and psychological expectations. It encourages readers to reflect on their past relationships with media and consider the present and future of media given their personal habits.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking text seamlessly weaves together media theory, psychology, and interpersonal communication, shedding light on how our interactions with media mirror the relationships we form with friends and romantic partners. By replicating intimacy, regularity, and reciprocity, media technologies have the remarkable ability to emulate the very essence of human connections.

In a comprehensive and engaging manner, the author delves into the intricate relationship between media and human behavior through research-rich, conversational chapters. By applying psychological principles, they explore how nine influential media technologies, including theatrical film, recorded music, consumer market cameras, radio, network and cable television, tape cassettes, video gaming, and dial-up internet service providers, have irrevocably transformed the communication environment, culture, and psychological expectations we hold for future media technologies.

What sets this book apart is its unique focus on mediums that have often been overlooked in traditional literature, such as recorded music, cable television, and magnetic tape. By encouraging readers to critically reflect on their own past relationships with media and consider the present environment and the future of media in light of their own personal habits, the book fosters a deeper understanding of the psychological significance of media technology, usage, and adoption across the past 150 years.

Whether you are a media studies, communication, or psychology student, scholar, or industry professional, 20th Century Media and the American Psyche is an invaluable resource. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex interplay between media and the human psyche, providing insights that will enrich your understanding of this dynamic field.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 152 x 226 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138572102