MEDIA300

This paper examines the evolving significance of television as a medium. Following a brief overview of the

origins and early development of TV, the paper examines the more recent genres of programmes that have emerged following the impact of cable TV producers such as HBO. It also examines the impact of the increasing overlap between television and online streaming (Netflix), and gives particular attention to the

distinctive roles that television now plays in terms of politics, commercial advertising and public service communication.