How The “Fag Hag” Went From Hated to Celebrated
At its core, the relationship between single women and gay men has longstanding historical roots.
Dan Rather on Dan Rather
Dan Rather's ruminations on politics and morality feel so 2017. This interview he gave in the '70s lends insight into how seriously he takes journalism.
A Short History of the Condom
Dating back to at least medieval times, the condom has taken a winding path to social acceptance.
Ronald Reagan, The First Reality TV Star President
Ronald Reagan is at the heart of the modern American politics of advertising, public relations, and a television in every home.
How Academics Fell In and Out of Love with TV Quiz Shows
In the 1950s, the world went quiz-show crazy. But something was rotten inside Hollywood—the shows were packed with ringers.
Mediated Reality is No Match for Personal Experience
The world represented in the media greatly influences our understanding and beliefs about reality. But our lived experiences might be more important.
Sesame Street’s Controversial Early Years
Sesame Street's original purpose was to use TV to deliver research-based educational techniques and prepare low-income kids for school.
Did the Internet Kill the TV Cliffhanger?
The internet may have changed the concept of the television cliffhanger, but is it possible that knowing the ending of something increases our enjoyment?
Rory Gilmore: The New New Woman
Recently, Netflix brought us the Gilmore Girls revival–Rory, Lorelei, and Emily 10 years on, able to “end” the show as its creator intended.
“The Simpsons”: More Than Just a Cartoon
"The Simpsons" is the longest-running scripted series in television history, full of canny satire and the occasional prophecy.