Description
Unprecedented worldwide distribution of books, television programs, and other cultural products would seem to augur well for the diversity of ideas. Yet a dwindling number of media conglomerates ? significantly American controlled ? are increasingly herding consumers toward very profitable ?blockbuster” films, books, and recordings at the expense of independent and alternative works. Presenting an essential international perspective, Blockbusters and Trade Wars reveals links between freedom of expression and intellectual diversity.
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Grant and Wood's hefty analysis of the economics and public policy of popular culture focuses on the market dynamics that drive ever-greater audiences to blockbuster films, television programs, and musical recordings at the expense of independent and alternative voices. Grant, a Canadian communications lawyer, and Wood, a radio and print journalist, consider how international trade law can endanger diversity and choice, and how informed policies can help preserve them. Of interest to cultural and communications policymakers as well as critics, observers, and analysts of books, music, film, television, and other forms of popular culture. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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