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: Hardback
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 captivating "water cooler" moments where audiences engaged in spirited discussions about the shared 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 unfold. Audiences, tired of being bound by the rigid confines of the broadcast schedule, began to drift away. The allure of the freedom to consume media content at their own pace and convenience became too powerful to resist. Promoters of social media and television services, recognizing the changing tides, swiftly adapted their strategies. They replaced the traditional broadcast schedule with a pervasive surveillance system that monitored and controlled the media consumption habits of individuals.

In this intricate dance between broadcasting and industrial/post-industrial work, author Randall Patnode unveils captivating new insights. He delves into the intricate interplay between these two realms and explores how Americans allocate their precious time. Patnode's analysis sheds light on the evolving dynamics of media consumption, the rise of new forms of entertainment, and the profound impact these changes have had on individual lives and society as a whole.

Through his insightful narrative, The Synchronized Society offers a thought-provoking exploration of the ever-evolving media landscape. It serves as a reminder of the profound influence that technology and cultural trends have on our lives and the need for us to remain vigilant in navigating the ever-changing tides of information dissemination. As we continue to embrace the asynchronous media era, it is essential to ponder the implications of our choices and the impact they have on our collective consciousness and social fabric.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978820104