The Ecology of Media

The television was initially used by university professors so that people from across the world could participate in lectures in one given place at a time. Since then, this technology has broadened its horizons to primarily entertainment purposes. In its early years, television was a luxury, with only the affluent being able to afford such a pastime. It was an advancement of the radio, which greatly impacted society as it became a means of relaying information on recent events and happenings. People would gather round the radio to listen to their favourite shows being broadcasted through airwaves. This popularity sparked and interest in being able to visually see these shows by various inventors dating back to the 20s. It was not until the 1952 that Canada first established commercially licensed stations with the founding of CBC. It began a cultural phenomenon of television shows, including Hockey Night in Canada, which still exists today. Besides entertainment services, the television has connected us geographically to events and news happening the world over, keeping us up to date in commerce and culture. It has greatly impacted the way we live, as we have become accustomed to cozying up to our favourite show with our loved ones after a long day’s work. Though its purpose was to connect us all, it seems to be doing the exact opposite. Instead of enjoying time outside with friends and family, we have become a culture that likes to sit in front of the tube rather than have to communicate with others. Its function has turned into an escape route from reality through video games and fictional shows which makes one wonder, have we gone too far with our use of the television? Or is it simply another advancement that has changed our way of life for the better?