Humans have been transferring information since the introduction of language and even before. From paintings to drums to writing to courier systems to the telegraph to the telephone to the internet, humans have pushed the limits on how to communicate information [1]. The microphone has let humans communicate through speaking, which has a very high rate of transmission (250 words per minute) [2]. Humans sent information through writing, photographs, and signals. However, the transmission of the human voice connected people more than any other era in human history. The human voice often elicits emotions in us easier than in writing [3]. Not only that, but unlike almost every other medium of communication, the human voice carries suprasegmentals that easily indicate mood, intent, and importance of what is being said [4].
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The use of microphones brought back the human connection in long distance communication that was less prevalent with things such as letters. It is no wonder then, that once the modern-day microphone was invented in the late 1800's its influence has only grown. Now microphones are so integrated into our lives that they're easy to forget about. We interact with them everyday, even carry them around all day in our pockets, yet we often don't appreciate how easy they've made it for us to hear each others' voices. Perhaps with the large influx of new technology and gadgets it's easier and easier to let something as fundamental as the microphone slip from our attention.