Items related to Misunderstanding Media
Synopsis
Popular writing about the media resounds with rhetoric of techno-glory or apocalypse. Brian Winston argues that this “information revolution” is an illusion, a consequence of deep misunderstandings about electronic media, their development, diffusion, and present forms. Technology does not determine in an absolute way the course of human history; humans do. But we cannot hope to come to terms with the future impact of communications technologies without a clear understanding of our immediate technological past.
With lively and iconoclastic style, Winston explains the development and diffusion of four central technologies: telephones, television, computers, and satellites. On the basis of these historical accounts, he formulates a model of how communications technologies are introduced into society in such a way as to prevent their disruption of the status quo. He convincingly demonstrates that the radical potential of each new technology has been suppressed by its development for specific and narrowly defined applications. Powerful historical patterns emerge as Winston moves from one medium to the next in his compelling study. This provocative book demonstrates that technology in itself is not subversive: television cannot rot our brains or destroy our morals. But to the extent that we allow ourselves to feel overwhelmed by an imaginary information revolution, we relinquish our control over what could be if not liberating, at least very useful forms of communication.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Review
Remarkably good... Winston offers one of the best histories of the computer I have ever read. It is rich in detail and finely textured... Altogether a very nice piece of work.--Joseph Weizenbaum
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
- PublisherHarvard University Press
- Publication date1990
- ISBN 10 0674576632
- ISBN 13 9780674576636
- BindingHardcover
- LanguageEnglish
- Number of pages424
Other Popular Editions of the Same Title
Search results for Misunderstanding Media
Stock Image
Misunderstanding Media
Published by
Harvard University Press, 1986
ISBN 10: 0674576632
ISBN 13: 9780674576636
Used
Hardcover
Seller: Better World Books, Mishawaka, IN, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Condition: Very Good. Former library book; may include library markings. Used book that is in excellent condition. May show signs of wear or have minor defects. Seller Inventory # 3383374-6
Quantity: 2 available
Seller Image
Misunderstanding Media
Published by
Harvard University Press, New Haven, CT, 1986
ISBN 10: 0674576632
ISBN 13: 9780674576636
Used
Hardcover
First Edition
Seller: Brenner's Collectable Books ABAA, IOBA, Manasquan, NJ, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Hardcover. Condition: Fine. Dust Jacket Condition: Near Fine. 1st Edition. 8vo., 419pp. Beautiful First Edition, First Printing with full number sequence. Square, tight and clean throughout with little or no wear. Very attractive unclipped, though unpriced, dust-jacket, has some mild edge-wear and a tiny tear at the heel. Still fresh and bright with no chipping or creases. A sharp collectable copy of an uncommon title. Seller Inventory # 010973
Quantity: 1 available