TV is probably the most used multimedia experience there is, it is easily accessible and with such a broad range of programmes and channels available from various sources there are things that appeal to a broad range of viewers. TV 3 is the development of viewer controlled or viewer tailored programming and advertising. The beginnings of this are already in place, with some situations where the viewing habits of individuals are monitored, with particular attention to adverts, so that similar things are chosen to be shown to them. Now this may have its advantages, in that it could be convenient to viewers to be directed to programmes they will enjoy, but personally I think that there are more dangers to this, with the possibility of restricted choice. How can you decide if you like something better if different options are not presented to you? There is also the possibility of controlling viewers through what is presented to them - making them think or act in a certain way by what is broadcast to them, and also WHO is making the decision about what you (the viewer) can and cannot watch.
Another possible advancement to TV experience is the involvement of viewers in the programmes and the possibility in them choosing the course a programme could take, or maybe becoming involved in it themselves. This idea was explored in Ray Bradbury's book Fahrenheit 451, which I read a couple of years ago. In this book there is a living room described, which is the same in everyone's houses, leading to uniformity and a restricted individuality, where there are full wall screens and they can be on all the walls and ceiling of the room completely encompassing the viewer. The main antagonists wife is shown as obsessed with this room, where she spends all her days and is even scripted into the TV shows.
It is an interesting development, however I think that it is too easily corruptible and could be used to limit our personal freedoms.
No comments:
Post a Comment