posted on 2023-08-30, 16:30authored byMareike Jenner
This article explores binge-watching as part of neoliberal discourses surrounding control, class and ‘good’ television, which leads to an overall discourse concerning the legitimation and de-legitimation of the medium. Binge-watching is understood here as part of a continuum of viewing practices that help us to understand and discuss the medium in popular discourse. As historical precedent, the emphasis lies on channel-surfing to illustrate the intersection of technology, control and ‘good’ television. This article outlines some of the discourses at stake in channel-surfing and its relationship with remote controls as these ancillary technologies move from being devices associated with avoiding ‘bad’ television to devices that subjugate viewers. Such a discursive de-legitimation of a viewing practice interlinks with an overall de-legitimation of the medium. This precedent is indicative of the way binge-watching’s cultural positioning has been negotiated throughout its history and may be re-negotiated now, especially in relation to Netflix. The dynamics of this negotiation take place at the intersection of class, technology, viewing practices and ‘good’ or ‘quality’ television.
History
Refereed
Yes
Volume
16
Issue number
2
Page range
298-317
Publication title
Participations: Journal of Audience & Reception Studies