Inspired by the British Museum’s “Stuff That Defines Us: A History of the World in 100 Objects,” Padua360 shares with readers the origins of certain objects and how they play a role in life today.
Many consumers today would be surprised to discover that headphones, an object now used to jam to the latest tunes or watch a movie on the go, were originally developed for military use. In fact, the first successful set of headphones was invented by Nathaniel Baldwin in 1919. He made this first prototype in his own kitchen and sold it to the US Navy for listening to electrical audio signals. The first stereo headphones were not designed until 1958, when John C. Koss invented headphones meant for listening to newly popular stereo LPs. Eventually, an invention initially meant for military purposes became centered around people’s unquenchable desire to be entertained. Soon, knowledge of the original purpose for headphones was lost as this new technology became assimilated into our consumer and entertainment driven culture. Headphones became a celebrity-endorsed commodity, and in 1966 the Koss Beatlephones became the first celebrity signature headphones.
Beginning in 1979 with the invention of the Walkman, headphones became a common household item. Designs got smaller for convenience and more creative for style as headphones became more and more in demand. As MP3 Players and, more significantly, iPods took the stage in music-technology, headphones went from a luxury to a necessity. Today, everyone has to have a pair.
So, what does our fascination with headphones say about us, as a people? First and foremost, the headphone speaks to our need to be constantly entertained. It is not enough to listen to our favorite song or watch a new movie in the comfort of our own home. No, we need demand the needs to take these coveted forms of amusement with us wherever we go. Headphones aid us in this crusade for continual enjoyment. Secondly, headphones are a vehicle for isolation. In a crowded room, we put in headphones in order to tune out our surroundings and be completely in our own head. The minute we put in a pair of headphones, we close ourselves off from those around us, becoming unapproachable and secluded. We would rather have the company of our preferred singer or favorite movie than true human interaction. Don’t get me wrong, I need my headphones too. They allow me to jam to pump-up songs when I run and watch movies on long car rides. We can and should continue to enjoy this innovative creation, as long as we don’t allow it to replace genuine human connections.