Sunday, September 26, 2010

Technological Change and the Radio

Technological changes shaped the radio into the power force it became in the 1920's. As the technology evolved, so did the radio and its significance in everyday life.

Technological changes have historically been the catalyst of developing powerhouse industries. From the airplane to the cell phone, to the iPod, technological innovations change our society completely as we become dependent on new technology, making it necessary for proper participation in society. Through this effect, the industries behind the new technology hold a great amount of power until new technological changes come about and replace them.

Beginning with Marconi's "wireless telegraph," and evolving into Sarnoff's "radio music box," it is evident that the technological evolution of radio embedded it into society and turned the radio industry into the tycoon it became. Marconi's original innovation was the birth of radio. Its technological relevance became apparent through its cruciality during the Titanic crisis. This inspired David Sarnoff to further develop the radio into personal "radio music boxes," which was a major part of shaping the radio industry. This development allowed radio to turn into a part of everyday life, whether it was bringing families together to listen to programs or keeping the public informed. The technological innovation of personal radios unified the country, making them an essential aspect of society and thus strengthening the radio industry.

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