In this book the author asks how new technologies can be organized to operate in the public's interest, and addresses the problem this question poses when applied to cable technology. Contents: List of Tables and Figures; Acknowledgements; Problems in Cable Communication Policy; Public Interests and Cable Communications; Explanations for Cable Community Interest Policies: Three Pure Types; An Empirical Examination of Explanations for Cable Community Interest Policies; An Organizational Explanation; Examining the Organizational Model; Regulating Cable Communications; Conclusions and Recommendations; Appendix: Variable Names, Definitions, and Sources; Bibliography; Index.

Originally published in 1985, this book surveys developments in cable television in the major industrialised countries with chapters specifically authored on each area. It looks at the technology, its potential, and how far it had been implemented, considering the reaction of governments, existing broadcasting corporations and licensing authorities. Going on to assess future trends, a discussion of the likely effects of cable on communications, society and economy is an enlightening read now.

This is a comprehensive guide of the law at every level as it applies to cable networks, to cable's satellite competitors, and to the convergence of these technologies with the broadband Internet.

During the early decades of the Cold War, large-scale investments in American defense and aerospace research and development spawned a variety of problem-solving techniques, technologies, and institutions. From systems analysis to reconnaissance satellites to think tanks, these innovations did not remain exclusive accessories of the defense establishment. Instead, they readily found civilian applications in both the private and public sector. City planning and management were no exception. Jennifer Light argues that the technologies and values of the Cold War fundamentally shaped the history of postwar urban America. From Warfare to Welfare documents how American intellectuals, city leaders, and the federal government chose to attack problems in the nation's cities by borrowing techniques and technologies first designed for military engagement with foreign enemies. Experiments in urban problem solving adapted the expertise of defense professionals to face new threats: urban chaos, blight, and social unrest. Tracing the transfer of innovations from military to city planning and management, Light reveals how a continuing source of inspiration for American city administrators lay in the nation's preparations for war.

The history of cable television in America is far older than networks like MTV, ESPN, and HBO, which are so familiar to us today. Tracing the origins of cable TV back to the late 1940s, media scholar John McMurria also locates the roots of many current debates about premium television, cultural elitism, minority programming, content restriction, and corporate ownership. Republic on the Wire takes us back to the pivotal years in which media regulators and members of the viewing public presciently weighed the potential benefits and risks of a two-tiered television system, split between free broadcasts and pay cable service. Digging into rare archives, McMurria reconstructs the arguments of policymakers, whose often sincere advocacy for the public benefits of cable television were fueled by cultural elitism and the priority to maintain order during a period of urban Black rebellions. He also tells the story of the people of color, rural residents, women’s groups, veterans, seniors, and low-income viewers who challenged this reasoning and demanded an equal say over the future of television. By excavating this early cable history, and placing equality at the center of our understanding of media democracy, Republic on the Wire is a real eye-opener as it develops a new methodology for studying media policy in the past and present.

The first of a two-part series, this volume addresses the broad scope of questions and issues that confront local governments when formulating or reevaluating cable policy. In 11 chapters, 14 authors present an historical perspective and discuss cable technology and state-of-the-art options: (1) "Overview of Cable TV Services and Technology," Nancy J. Jesuale and Ralph Lee Smith; (2) "Cable System Revenues and Expenses," Deborah Love-Heilig; (3) "Enhanced and Interactive Services," Janet L. Quigley; (4) "Security and Fire Alarm Services," John Mansell; (5) "Institutional Networks," Thomas E. Wolfsohn; (6) "Community Programming: Public Access and Local Origination," Susan Bednarczyk, Tom Borrup, Janet Quigley, and Margaret Shulz; (7) "Local Government Uses of Cable," John Velie; (8) "Educational Uses of Cable," Carol Brown Eilber; (9) "Health Uses of Cable," Charlotte A. Bliss; (10) "Telecommunications Needs Assessments," Harriet Moss; and (11) "Vital Links-- Interconnection of Cable Systems," Linda J. Camp. Appended materials include "Elements of Community Television Production," John Velie; "Glossary of Cable Terms," Lonni Moffet; "Bibliography," Reed Carpenter; and "Satellite Program Services" (a listing). Diagrams and tables of data are included in various chapters. (LMM)