I am reading an article in Le Monde about how Internet has changed the French habits of “cultural” consumption (which would be called “Entertainment” in the Anglo-Saxon world). It’s not surprising that such a powerful medium has profoundly altered our relationship with culture, entertainment and information. However there are some surprises and, as far as I am concerned, the confirmation that I am totally anti-social for not following the general trends.
Movie-going is on the increase. Most French people go more often to the movies (57% in 2008 vs. 49% in 1997). I almost never go to the movies anymore, because of my busy schedule and the time-shifting and VOD offers of my IPTV subscription.
Music listening is on the increase, especially rock and roll and pop music in affluent classes and electronic and rap music in less affluent ones. Could that be because of illegal downloading? On this one I score a good mark because thanks to Apple, Inc. I have started to listen to music again, and, well, to rock and pop rather than rap.
TV is decreasing for the first time. I used to not have a TV signal in my house, for fear of my children becoming addicted. Now that they are addicted to the Internet and will not watch TV, I have subscribed to an IPTV service. Consequently my TV watching has increased from naught to a couple hours a week. Thank me, TV moguls!
Museum going is on the decline. I steadily visit museums and spend a good time there (you don’t have to believe me!).
Theatre going is increasing. From a dismal 16% to a huge 19%. A theatre owner in Marseilles has started a hunger strike because nobody goes to his shows and the government is not supporting him. I’d love to go more often to the theater but I must admit that I will not fill his plate very regularly.
Reading keeps decreasing. I have never read more than nowadays, and no best-sellers. Reading is the best way to flee from our day-to-day concerns. It lets us share in the everlasting wisdom of classical authors. It distracts us and gives us leisure to pause for thinking.
Overall I’m
happy to see how Internet is changing things, and not just for the worst. I
have always believed that it would bring more good than evil. The fact that it
promotes culture is the best proof.