Rethinking Media Economics
Published on 28. October 2025
Book
Hardback
156 pages
978-1-0353-4195-5 (ISBN)
Description
Rethinking Media Economics emphasizes how this field of study is affected by rapid changes in the media industry due to technology, regulation, globalization, and consumer preferences. Alan B. Albarran takes the reader through major economic events from the 1950s onwards to highlight how technology in the 21st century has completely changed the relationship between media, media content and audiences via digital platforms and streaming services.
Chapters question the assumptions, theories, and methods of analysis of research into media economics. Albarran explores how the term media has evolved over time; how consumption of media has changed due to evolving distribution technologies and formats; and the changing consumer experience with media, and how audiences must constantly adapt to new ways of accessing media content. He explicates the media economics ecosystem consisting of three spheres of influence: the corporate sphere, creative economy sphere and metaverse sphere. The book ultimately investigates avenues for future enquiry, particularly in light of new technologies driving further change and evolution through artificial intelligence, mixed content realities (VR, AR, MR), the growth of blockchain, and quantum computing.
This is a timely and accessible read for students of media economics, as well as communications and journalism more widely. The book also provides an interesting take on the topic for professionals working in media.
Chapters question the assumptions, theories, and methods of analysis of research into media economics. Albarran explores how the term media has evolved over time; how consumption of media has changed due to evolving distribution technologies and formats; and the changing consumer experience with media, and how audiences must constantly adapt to new ways of accessing media content. He explicates the media economics ecosystem consisting of three spheres of influence: the corporate sphere, creative economy sphere and metaverse sphere. The book ultimately investigates avenues for future enquiry, particularly in light of new technologies driving further change and evolution through artificial intelligence, mixed content realities (VR, AR, MR), the growth of blockchain, and quantum computing.
This is a timely and accessible read for students of media economics, as well as communications and journalism more widely. The book also provides an interesting take on the topic for professionals working in media.
Reviews / Votes
'Dr. Alan Albarran's Rethinking Media Economics is the culmination of a lifetime of dedicated research, weaving together decades of knowledge, insights, and discoveries about the field of media economics. This book is also about the future. Dr. Albarran rethinks some of the media business models and strategies that we can expect to see in the next 10-20 years. The depth and authenticity of this work invite you to not only consider the ideas being presented but to appreciate the effort and dedication that went into the making of this book. Step inside, and discover a narrative built on knowledge, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the field of media economics.' -- Richard A. Gershon, Professor Emeritus, Western Michigan University, USA 'In this wide-ranging and holistic consideration of media economics, Alan Albarran draws attention to how ceteris paribus, other things held constant, is problematic when considering the past four decades of media economics research and its future. He shows how sweeping changes in economic and financial systems, media types and distribution mechanisms, business models, revenue sources, and audience behaviour have altered the ecosystem in which media operate and their underlying economics. He identifies factors and issues that promoted those changes and how they affect understanding of media economics and the future of media economics research.' -- Robert G. Picard, University of Oxford, UK 'This insightful book provides a fresh examination of several topics of contemporary relevance to the field of media economics. Alan Albarran provides a comprehensive exploration of such issues as the rise of the creative economy, changing audience behaviours and the emergent digital media ecosystem, all in the context of wider shifts in the global economy.' -- Gillian Doyle, University of Glasgow, UK 'Rethinking Media Economics is an essential monograph for understanding the challenges faced by companies operating in the information and entertainment markets. The author accurately presents the strategies and business models that are best suited to the changes brought about by technology, globalization, increased competition, and new consumer demands.' -- Alfonso Sanchez-Tabernero, Universidad de Navarra, SpainMore details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
Cheltenham
United Kingdom
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Dimensions
Height: 216 mm
Width: 138 mm
ISBN-13
978-1-0353-4195-5 (9781035341955)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Alan B. Albarran, Professor Emeritus, University of North Texas, US
Content
Contents
Preface
1 Introduction to Rethinking Media Economics
2 Rethinking media: definitions, content, and platforms
3 Rethinking media audiences and audience issues
4 Rethinking business models and revenue streams
5 Rethinking news and the role of journalism
6 Rethinking media markets, products, and transformation
7 Rethinking the key players in media economics
8 Rethinking the media economics ecosystem
9 Rethinking research in media economics
Bibliography
Preface
1 Introduction to Rethinking Media Economics
2 Rethinking media: definitions, content, and platforms
3 Rethinking media audiences and audience issues
4 Rethinking business models and revenue streams
5 Rethinking news and the role of journalism
6 Rethinking media markets, products, and transformation
7 Rethinking the key players in media economics
8 Rethinking the media economics ecosystem
9 Rethinking research in media economics
Bibliography