ABSTRACT
Chapter 1 has briefly introduced the theory of social generations following the work of Mannheim. A few examples of the previous research within this area were given, especially of research that is of relevance for the present argument. It was also argued that generation should be studied in relation to other concepts, such as age and life course. It also described why process-oriented and holistic perspectives are important if we are to understand the role that generational experience plays in the wider historical process. In addition, the merits of comparative perspectives were outlined, and it was explained how cross-cultural and cross-generational approaches could be vital for a cultural understanding of media and generations.
