Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2012
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
History
Committee Chair
Mackey, Thomas C., 1956-
Author's Keywords
Radio; Broadcasting; Louisville; Kentucky; WHAS
Subject
WHAS (Radio station : Louisville, Ky.)--History; Radio stations--Kentucky--Louisville--History; Radio broadcasting--Kentucky--Louisville--History
Abstract
As the historiography on radio broadcasting continues to grow and forces examination from the macro-level to the micro-level, station histories are becoming increasingly important. The story of WHAS highlights the evolution of a nationally celebrated, innovative radio station dedicated to the service of its community. However, this thesis argues that WHAS radio's arrival as a viable commercial business distorted the initial trajectories its forefathers intended for the medium thereby diluting its nobler aspects. A technological tool with the unprecedented power and influence -- to enlighten and enhance the daily lives of millions through education, the high art of classical music and opera, exposure to politics, and instant news updates, all filtered through a sense of duty to its listeners -- saw its grand ambitions watered down by the allure of increased profits sacrificing originality and imagination for accessible, light-entertainment programming generated from a handful of single sources.
Recommended Citation
Cummings, William A. 1982-, "Groping in the dark : an early history of WHAS radio." (2012). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 298.
https://doi.org/10.18297/etd/298
