Mass Communications exam 2

Exam II

1.Where did the word television first appear and what was the year? Extra credit - What was television originally called by many because it seemed like a new version of the dominant medium at the time?

The first use of the word television was made by Constantin Perskyi in 1900 at the world fair. It was first called the Electric Telescope.

2.Approximately how many television stations exist in the United States, and how do television stations make money primarily? List some of the threats to television based on what we have learned in this class. Name at least 3 threats. Oral Question - Why are these things threats?

There are approximately 1,745 television stations in the United States. Television stations make money primarily through ratings and commercial ads. Three threats to television are: the internet (Hulu), Netflix/iTunes, and new smart phones.

3.Name the researchers who are credited with developing television and where did commercial television first appear? Where did most TV shows originate when television first started? Extra credit - What company dominates the television ratings business?

        The first rough television, which was mechanical, was invented in 1884 by Paul Nipkow using rotating discs. John Baird followed that principle in the 1920’s. The first electric television was created by Vladimir Zworykin in 1929 using cathode rays. The television wasn’t widely produced until after World War II. It was manufactured in the U.S. in 1948. Most shows originated from radio. The company that dominates the rating business is News Corp which owns Fox, the highest rated television channel in the U.S.

4.Who was Newton Minow? Do you agree or disagree with his views on television and why? Do any of the issues that Minow described still exist today with television, and if so list them? Extra Credit - List any of the quiz shows that were part of the scandal and describe what happened?

        Newton Minow is an attorney. He was the chairman of the FCC. He views television as a vast wasteland. I agree with his view because most of television is repetitive. I think because a small group of companies own every station, they keep recycling the same ideas (reality tv, game shows) which is making tv stagnant. Quiz shows in television like the $64,000 question, twenty-one, high-low and tic tac dough were rigging their winnings.

5.Television became global with satellite technology. Which television based technology satellite, cable, wireless or the Internet will be the dominant distributer of television technology and why do you think so?

        The internet will be the biggest distributor of television technology because of its accessibility. The new smart cell phones are internet friendly, allowing people to watch television on their cell phones. The fact that the internet allows people to watch most shows at any time brings television back to people who are plagued by very busy schedules.