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Cover of Merchants of Culture

Merchants of Culture

by John B. Thompson

Book Details

Publisher:John Wiley & Sons
Published:2021-04-14
Pages:333
Format:BOOK
Language:en

Reading Info

About This Book

These are turbulent times in the world of book publishing. For nearly five centuries the methods and practices of book publishing remained largely unchanged, but at the dawn of the twenty-first century the industry finds itself faced with perhaps the greatest challenges since Gutenberg. A combination of economic pressures and technological change is forcing publishers to alter their practices and think hard about the future of the books in the digital age. In this book - the first major study of

Our Review

This essential examination of the publishing industry reveals how centuries-old traditions are colliding with digital disruption and economic pressures, creating unprecedented challenges for book publishers worldwide. John B. Thompson delivers the first comprehensive analysis of how technological change is forcing publishers to completely rethink their role in bringing books to readers. The study meticulously documents the transformation of publishing practices that had remained largely unchanged since Gutenberg's era, offering readers a front-row seat to an industry in profound transition.

What makes this work indispensable is its insider perspective on the business realities behind the books we read, making it crucial reading for aspiring authors, publishing professionals, and anyone curious about where literature is headed. Thompson doesn't just describe the changesβ€”he explains the economic and technological forces driving them, providing context that helps readers understand why the industry operates as it does. This book serves as both historical record and crystal ball, offering valuable insights for navigating the future of books in our increasingly digital world.

Themes

Social Science

Subjects

Social Science