The Synchronized Society: Time and Control from Broadcasting to the Internet

The Synchronized Society explores the history of twentieth-century broadcasting and the transition to asynchronous media, tracing how broadcasting was used to control society and create "water cooler" moments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2023
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

The Synchronized Society delves into the rich tapestry of the twentieth century's synchronous broadcast era and the transformative shift towards the asynchronous media landscape that reigns supreme today. The genesis of broadcasting can be traced back to the insatiable desire of nineteenth-century industrialists, political visionaries, and social reformers to rein in a society that seemed to be teetering on the edge. This yearning manifested itself in the form of the broadcast schedule, a meticulously curated flow of information and entertainment that mandated audiences to gather in one place, typically their homes, at designated times. This arrangement not only facilitated the creation of "water cooler" moments where audiences engaged in spirited discussions about the media texts they had consumed but also played a pivotal role in shaping collective identities and fostering a sense of community.

However, as the twentieth century drew to a close, a subtle shift began to occur in the way audiences interacted with broadcasting. Gradually, people began to drift away from the rigid confines of the broadcast schedule, seeking out more flexible and personalized forms of media consumption. While promoters of social media and television services attempted to maintain control by replacing the schedule with surveillance of media use, the allure of asynchronous media proved too powerful to resist.

In this captivating exploration, author Randall Patnode offers fresh and thought-provoking insights into the intricate interplay between broadcasting and industrial/post-industrial work, shedding light on how Americans allocate their precious time. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Patnode unveils the complex dynamics that shape our media consumption habits and the profound impact they have on our social, cultural, and economic landscapes.

The Synchronized Society serves as a valuable reminder of the ever-evolving nature of media and the profound impact it has on our lives. It encourages us to reflect on the ways in which we engage with media, both synchronously and asynchronously, and to consider the implications of these shifts for our collective well-being and the future of media itself.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978820098