Sample Solution

A “social relations” approach to the history of media teaches us that media, such as the telegraph, is not only a technology but also an integral part of our social and cultural life. This means not only examining how it functions technically or its commercial / economic implications but also looking at the human side by exploring the ways in which it changes people’s lives. For example, this includes understanding how different groups interact with one another; examining their motivations for using certain products and services, their expectations when engaging with them, and any associated power dynamics (Ippolito 2017).

In terms of the telegraph, this approach would examine how its invention impacted various aspects of society such as communication between individuals or families over long distances; businesses being able to conduct financial transactions more quickly and efficiently; wars being fought more effectively through greater coordination among troops; newspapers gathering news faster resulting in quicker dissemination of information (Kolodney 2019). It would also analyze what types of messages were sent versus who had access to sending them. In other words was it mainly used by wealthy elites or could anyone send messages regardless of class or financial status?

Ultimately, this research can provide valuable insight into why specific technologies become popular despite their potential drawbacks. By recognizing these complex relationships we can better understand our own past while gaining perspective on current issues facing modern societies (Lemonnier-Delapierre & Cefaï 2018).