How do TV stations figure out viewer counts?

[manlymatt83]

Isn't television (at least analog) one way only? If so, how did they used to calculate popularity and who would watch what for things back in the 80's and 90's? Some of the numbers are actually fairly precise.

 

[schneiderguy]

Text

 

[TridenT]

Originally posted by: schneiderguy
Text

That and guess work.

 

[Snapster]

By analysing sample groups, then a little maths and hey presto you have a figure for a show based on population (obviously never 100% accurate).

 

[Newbian]

They are able to see through the tv you are watching the shows on and watch you.

 

[SunSamurai]

Another reason why they should just go all sat and net broadcast.

 

[Red Squirrel]

Originally posted by: Newbian
They are able to see through the tv you are watching the shows on and watch you.

When TVs first came out people actually thought this, so they'd dress all nice to watch the hockey game and such. (people used to dress preppy to go at hockey games at some point).

 

[compuwiz1]

Originally posted by: Newbian
They are able to see through the tv you are watching the shows on and watch you.

That must be why my mom told me not to pick my nose when watching tv. :shocked:

 

[Locut0s]

Originally posted by: RedSquirrel

Originally posted by: Newbian
They are able to see through the tv you are watching the shows on and watch you.

When TVs first came out people actually thought this, so they'd dress all nice to watch the hockey game and such. (people used to dress preppy to go at hockey games at some point).

Umm yeah I'm going to go with it was a new and novel experience to watch anything on TV so people felt like dressing up for the event. But your "people can see me through the TV" explanation is good to

 

[Locut0s]

Originally posted by: Newbian
They are able to see through the tv you are watching the shows on and watch you.

Doesn't all your years of fapping in front of it worry you then?