The Idea of an Essay, Volume 2

155 technological, and personal implications associated with radio seemingly going by the wayside, it begs the question: Is radio dead? This essay examines the relevancy of radio in the modern media setting by exploring some aspects of the birth and history of radio, certain characteristics that makes radio unique, and its current and future standing in the media market. Radio is a means of media, by way of local and national stations, a listener can tune in to any variety of music, talk shows, sports broadcasts, and news programs. The radio industry has had an effect on media. In order to understand how radio has affected media, historical aspects of the industry must first be examined. Next, the reasons why radio appeals to listeners as a media outlet must be assessed. Once the history and the appeal of radio is grasped, the future of radio can be considered. It is in this order that the topic will be explained. Radio is connected to communication and technology, which in turn is connected to science. The development of science leads to innovation and creation in new forms of technology and communication. In order to appreciate the birth of radio, an appreciation for the development of the science behind the communication outlet should be obtained first. This understanding that technology and communication are not separated fromeach other is an important factor to consider in radio development as a media outlet. The driving force behind technology and communication is science, for as science improves understanding and developments in technology so does technology improve communication (Barboutis 156). The development of broadcast radio was a gradual process, as the audience had to learn to listen to this form of communication. “The transformation of a radio listener to a fan or a community occurred slowly. Listeners reported that sometimes their older family members steadfastly refused to listen to the radio, favoring other forms of entertainment” (MacLennan 313-314). As MacLennan shares in her article on the development of the Canadian radio audience, once listeners learned the technology and prepared their schedules around the broadcasted programs, casual listeners became fans (325). As families began listening together, table top and floor model radios became popular in households, fueling the continued growth. Canadians loved their sports, especially hockey, and the ability to hear games broadcast across the country in the 1920s and