With most of my studies I tend to ask about favourite television programs, to see what’s broadly popular and, more interestingly, to gauge why. It has always been the case that a few programs would stand out. These would be mentioned often and by many people. They were fodder for the “water cooler” conversation at work the next day.
Speaking to young Australians in their early 20s it seems media fragmentation is finally here. Programs like Family Guy and Jersey Shore (and its off-shoots) get a few mentions, but the enthusiasm is no longer universal, and they are not all watching these programs at the same time.

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