ABSTRACT
The 20th century was marked by the incredible impact of mass media on the lives of the American people and its powerful role in the U.S. society and economy. At the beginning of the 21st century, new media technologies like the Internet are becoming mainstreammedia. Likewise, a growingnumberofmedia firms are extending their global reach as well as contemplating how to best realize the potential of a new digital media environment (Doyle, 2002; Herman & McChesney, 1997). It is evident that the diffusion of communication technologies has become a critical force in shaping not only American society but also the future of its media industries.
