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Bright Signals

Susan Murray

320 Pages
2018-07-26

Bright Signals

Duke University Press

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Bright Signals - Summary

"Bright Signals" by Susan Murray is a vibrant and captivating exploration of the history of color television, tracing its journey from a technological novelty to a dominant force in visual culture. This book is not just about the technical advancements but delves into the cultural, commercial, and philosophical debates that color television sparked. Murray's detailed narrative reveals the intricate path of color television, highlighting its impact on society and its role in shaping modern visual media. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in media studies, visual culture, or 20th-century history, as it offers a comprehensive and engaging look at how color television transformed the way we see the world.

Key Ideas

1

The Complicated Birth of a Technology

Susan Murray meticulously details the numerous technical hurdles, competing systems, and industry skepticism that delayed color television's widespread adoption. More than a simple technological leap, color television represented a complex interplay of scientific ingenuity, corporate strategy, and government regulation. The book illuminates the fascinating, and often fraught, path towards standardization and mass production.

2

Color as a Cultural Force

"Bright Signals" explores how color television altered perceptions of reality, influenced advertising and consumer desire, and sparked discussions about the nature of vision and human perception. Murray reveals how color became a battleground for ideas about authenticity, representation, and the power of visual media to shape our understanding of the world.

3

Television's Evolving Relationship with Nature

The arrival of color television coincided with a growing environmental consciousness. Murray examines how the medium both reflected and shaped anxieties about technology's impact on the natural world. From concerns about the mining practices behind color television production to debates about the 'artificiality' of color on screen, the book reveals how this seemingly simple innovation forced viewers to confront complex questions about technology's place in the natural order.

FAQ's

"Bright Signals" primarily focuses on the history of color television, examining its technological development, cultural impact, and the various debates it sparked in society.

The book explores how color television changed perceptions of reality, influenced advertising and consumer behavior, and sparked discussions about vision and human perception, highlighting its role in shaping modern visual media.

Susan Murray provides a detailed narrative on the technical challenges, cultural significance, and environmental concerns associated with color television, offering a comprehensive view of its impact on society and visual culture.

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