Abstract

Radio and Ideas

This article focuses on the book "Radio and the Printed Page: An Introduction to the Study of Radio and Its Role in the Communication of Ideas," by Paul F. Lazarsfeld. Over the quackery and pseudo-research of radio, the work of Dr. Lazarsfeld and his associates at the Office of Radio Research of Columbia University stands up like the mast of a broadcasting station. Even against a different background this would be an important book, providing a veritable conspectus of research in the entire field with which it deals, an account of studies finished, work in progress, and research which ought to be undertaken. It summarizes not only most of the research that Dr. Lazarsfeld's office has done since 1937, but almost every other reputable study that contributes to the problem.