Telepower, Planning, and Society: Crisis in Communication

Telepower, Planning, and Society examines the crucial issues facing society in the rapid development of telecommunication. Melville Branch discusses the real and generally unrecognized impact and power of television and telecomputing; the role and responsibilities of the mass media; the built-in dynamics of commercial television that have caused it to become more and more divorced from the conditions and needs of society; and the comprehensive planning necessary, both in government and the private sector, to achieve societally desirable goals. He addresses important questions: Why do we disregard the pervasive effects of television and telecomputing on society? Why are the determinative role and responsibilities of the mass media rarely considered by the public? Why don't elected representatives plan explicitly for the best use of our vast communication system? Why isn't this system treated as the most crucial public utility? These issues, addressed straightforwardly by Dr. Branch, are important for all to consider, especially the legislative and entrepreneurial leaders of our society.