ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the history of Time Warner and the two companies from which it emerged, Time Inc. and Warner Communications Inc and it then presents an overview of the company's recent economic, political, and the cultural activities. The Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. segment produces and distributes motion pictures, television programming, videogames, and live stage plays. In the early 1960s, Time Inc. and Warner Bros. developed conglomerated corporate structures that were consistent with other corporations within the media and cultural industries, as well as the wider US economy. The chapter reviews the broad strategies that is employing to expand its video content production, internationalize its operations, and profit from new distribution methods; all while providing higher rates of return for its shareholders. The production, distribution, and marketing of the commodities, including those differentiated as quality, is guided by an abiding commitment to profit and the creation of relatively short-term shareholder value.
