The medium has gone from giant, clunky boxes to super-slim, high definition models with internet capabilities. However, throughout its existence, watching TV has always been a social event. Watching TV together has become a national pastime. Whether it be the news, a political debate, a sitcom or drama, or even a sports game, watching TV together is a more enjoyable experience for all. Much of this experience originates from going to the movies. A staple in entertainment viewing, going to the cinema has always been considered the premium viewing experience. However, with recent advancements such as larger, ultra high-definition flatscreens and surround sound, watching at home has become a valid compromise. Combine that with the privacy and comfort of your own home, and the lack of insane cinema concession prices, it is easy to see why more and more people are starting to favor the home-viewing experience over the cinema. Some forms of television are more suitable to social viewings than other. One might argue that an action thriller might not be suitable for discussion and interruptions. However in the case of Seinfeld, the show is lighthearted and casual, perfect for group viewing. There are no intricate plot details that one might miss, nor are there moments that cannot be missed. These are key elements in a group viewing, as such events are more laid-back, where the content on the tv is not the main focus. Another key aspect of social viewing that has progressed significantly over the past decade is social media. More and more TV shows are incorporating social media into their weekly programming. This comes in the form of polls, online discussion, fan contribution, and much more. Television has become a two screen experience. The television provides most of the content, while a smartphone, tablet, or laptop provides extra information to the viewer. This entire experience is simply not possible by just reading the
The medium has gone from giant, clunky boxes to super-slim, high definition models with internet capabilities. However, throughout its existence, watching TV has always been a social event. Watching TV together has become a national pastime. Whether it be the news, a political debate, a sitcom or drama, or even a sports game, watching TV together is a more enjoyable experience for all. Much of this experience originates from going to the movies. A staple in entertainment viewing, going to the cinema has always been considered the premium viewing experience. However, with recent advancements such as larger, ultra high-definition flatscreens and surround sound, watching at home has become a valid compromise. Combine that with the privacy and comfort of your own home, and the lack of insane cinema concession prices, it is easy to see why more and more people are starting to favor the home-viewing experience over the cinema. Some forms of television are more suitable to social viewings than other. One might argue that an action thriller might not be suitable for discussion and interruptions. However in the case of Seinfeld, the show is lighthearted and casual, perfect for group viewing. There are no intricate plot details that one might miss, nor are there moments that cannot be missed. These are key elements in a group viewing, as such events are more laid-back, where the content on the tv is not the main focus. Another key aspect of social viewing that has progressed significantly over the past decade is social media. More and more TV shows are incorporating social media into their weekly programming. This comes in the form of polls, online discussion, fan contribution, and much more. Television has become a two screen experience. The television provides most of the content, while a smartphone, tablet, or laptop provides extra information to the viewer. This entire experience is simply not possible by just reading the