Charlie Hauck develops a revolutionary plan to help major television networks in his essay “My Plan to Save Network Television.” Simply put, he suggests that all those over the age of 49 be banned from watching television. Hauck sites that though the Nielson television ratings report is divided into demographics, the most important one is far and away the 18-49 year olds. They have significantly more spending power and have more disposable income to use on products. Major advertisers want to lock into these spending habits early in life so they can follow the trend for the years to come. This is seen as inviting to advertisers and make commercial spots during primetime network broadcasts more appealing. Hauck would know; he is a television writer and producer used to appealing to certain types of audiences. If only those in that particular age group were allowed to watch, the cost to advertise would increase and thereby save the four major broadcast networks.
While at first glace this seems like a ridiculous idea and something that would never be approved, Hauck has some surprisingly good support for it. On top of the aforementioned financial benefits, he also mentions that the age restrictions for retirement communities are never called into question or disputed by younger Americans. Older people should likewise accept age restrictions on television. Though this seems borderline uncivilized, the author presents his case in such a way that the reader can easily see benefits in following his guidelines.
1 comment:
Why would he and, most importantly, the reader care to "save the four major broadcast networks"? Who is he preaching to and what is his purpose?:-)
Post a Comment