media archaeology as methodology

Media archaeology is a research method that examines past media technologies, devices, and practices to understand how they shape current media and culture. It involves exploring old, often forgotten media artifacts—such as early televisions, radios, or print media—to uncover their historical context, features, and influence. By analyzing these, media archaeology reveals how media evolve over time and how previous technologies influence future developments. This approach provides insight into the layered history of media, highlighting the interconnectedness of technological innovation, cultural change, and societal perceptions without assuming direct progress.