Toward a Field of “Distribution Studies:” Considering the Role of Media Distribution in Society and Scholarship

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session I
  In Interactive Paper Session: Philosophy, Theory, and Critique Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

Perhaps even more directly than questions of production or content, the study of distribution cuts straight to the heart of who has access to culture and on what terms. However, distribution has typically received less attention from communication scholars than other areas like media production, analysis of media texts, or studies of audience effects. This paper examines the areas where media distribution practices and research intersect with important issues in communication scholarship. It makes the case that, precisely because distribution touches on so many areas of social importance and scholarship, it can and should be advanced as a subject of study in its own right.

Author

• Joshua Braun, Quinnipiac University