The original post: /r/television by /u/georgewalterackerman on 2025-04-23 18:48:46.
I think the way we experience TV has changed a lot over the decades. We all used to watch the same TV content, most often at the same time. It was a shared, communal experience.
When I googled this, here’s what I found:
Yes, there’s a perception that TV has lost its communal feel, particularly due to factors like streaming, binge-watching, and the proliferation of viewing options. The shift from a shared viewing experience to individual, personalized consumption can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection.
Here’s a more detailed look at why this perception exists:
Streaming and On-Demand Viewing: The rise of streaming services allows individuals to watch shows and movies whenever and wherever they want, which can lead to less shared viewing experiences.
Binge-Watching:
Binge-watching, where people watch multiple episodes of a show in a row, can further isolate individuals as they become engrossed in the content and less likely to engage in social interactions during viewing.
Multiple Platforms and Content Choice:
The abundance of streaming platforms and content choices can make it difficult to find a shared viewing experience, as individuals may be on different platforms or at different points in staggered releases.
Loss of Shared Social Experience:
The decline in communal TV viewing can lead to a loss of shared social experiences, such as discussing shows with others or sharing the excitement of watching a popular program together. Focus on Individualized Consumption:
The focus on individualized consumption and personalized recommendations can further contribute to a feeling of isolation, as individuals may be less likely to share viewing experiences with others