Ken Auletta

Easton Press Ken Auletta books

Three Blind Mice - signed first edition - 1991

 

 

 

Ken Auletta biography

Kenneth Auletta is an American author, journalist, and media critic known for his insightful and in-depth coverage of the media and technology industries. Born on April 23, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, Auletta has established himself as a prominent figure in the realm of journalism, particularly for his extensive work in The New Yorker. Auletta began his career in the 1960s as a political campaign manager, working for Senator Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign. Subsequently, he transitioned to journalism, where he quickly made a name for himself as a reporter with a keen interest in media-related subjects. In 1977, he joined The New Yorker, a magazine renowned for its long-form journalism and cultural commentary.

Throughout his career, Auletta has written numerous profiles and articles that delve into the intricacies of media moguls, corporate leaders, and the evolving landscape of communication. His writing often explores the intersection of business, technology, and culture, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping the media industry. One of Auletta's most notable works is the book Three Blind Mice: How the TV Networks Lost Their Way, published in 1991. In this book, he scrutinizes the decline of the major television networks and explores the challenges they faced in adapting to changing viewer preferences and technological advancements.

In addition to his work in journalism and book authorship, Auletta has been a prolific commentator on the media landscape. He has served as a contributing editor for industry publications and has appeared on television and radio programs to share his insights.

Ken Auletta's reputation as a perceptive and influential media critic has been further solidified through his subsequent books, including Googled: The End of the World as We Know It (2009), which examines the rise of Google and its impact on various industries. Auletta's enduring commitment to exploring the dynamics of media and technology has made him a respected figure in the field of journalism. His ability to navigate complex subjects and communicate them in a compelling and accessible manner has earned him widespread acclaim, making him a significant voice in the ongoing conversation about the role of media in society.

 

 

Three Blind Mice: How the TV Networks Lost Their Way

Three Blind Mice: How the TV Networks Lost Their Way is a revealing exposé authored by Ken Auletta, a seasoned journalist known for his incisive commentary on the media industry. Published in 1991, this book offers a compelling insider's view of the decline of the traditional television networks in the face of mounting competition and shifting consumer preferences. Drawing from extensive research and interviews with key industry figures, Auletta presents a comprehensive analysis of the factors that led to the downfall of the once-dominant television networks. From the rise of cable television and the proliferation of niche programming to the advent of new technologies such as satellite broadcasting and home video, Auletta meticulously chronicles the seismic shifts that rocked the television landscape in the late 20th century.

Three Blind Mice is a damning indictment of the networks' failure to adapt to changing market dynamics and embrace innovation. Auletta argues that entrenched bureaucracies, insular corporate cultures, and a reluctance to take risks contributed to their downfall, paving the way for upstart cable channels and independent producers to steal viewership and advertising dollars. Through vivid anecdotes and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, Auletta paints a vivid portrait of the personalities and power struggles that shaped the television industry during this tumultuous period. From the boardrooms of network executives to the backlots of Hollywood studios, he offers readers a front-row seat to the drama and intrigue that unfolded behind the scenes.

Three Blind Mice is more than just a critique of the television industry—it is a cautionary tale about the perils of complacency and the imperative of embracing change in an ever-evolving media landscape. Auletta's insights remain relevant today, serving as a timely reminder for media executives and aspiring journalists alike of the importance of innovation, adaptability, and staying ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive marketplace.