Media and Their Influences, Part 3
Question 1: Describe the relationship of radio to other forms of mass media.
Answer 1: When it was first introduced, radio was the most important form of mass communication. Unlike telegraphs, radios could deliver complex messages about events as they happened. Also, radio allowed for dramatic use of the human voice and special sound effects. In general, radio is a more personal medium than telegraph communication. Eventually, however, the ability of television to transmit images and sound allowed this medium to supersede radio as the primary form of mass communication. Nvertheless, radio remains the predominant medium for the transmission of music and continues to be an important vehicle for the transmission of news.
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Question 2: Describe the development of radio networks.
Answer 2: One of the most important periods in the history of radio communication was the development of radio networks. Radio networks first developed as a way to offset the costs of maintaining radio towers and transmission equipment. Radio networks began to sell commercials to businesses that wanted to advertise. These businesses would pay the radio station for the right to air their advertisements. Various radio stations joined together in networks and gave one another permission to air each other's shows. In this way, radio stations around the country standardized programming and made radio a viable business. Each station was able to produce a smaller amount of better programming.
Question 3: Describe the development of motion pictures.
Answer 3: The first motion pictures were developed by Thomas Edison and his associates in 1893. After a few years of tinkering, motion pictures were introduced to the general public and were immediately popular. Many stores offered “nickelodeons,” in which patrons could watch a brief presentation for a nickel. Around 1910, a small film industry began to develop in Hollywood, California. In 1912, the first full-size theaters were introduced. In the mid-1920s, sound was added to motion pictures, which had previously been silent or accompanied by live music. By 1929, all new films had sound.
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