Ignacia Eschelbach is a Ph.D. candidate in Sociology with a research interest in popular culture, particularly focusing on the concept of time and the interaction between human and non-human actors. Originally from Santiago, Chile, she holds MAs in Political Philosophy and Politics. While her interests are primarily theoretical, she dedicates her free time to studying and practicing photography, aiming to eventually incorporate visual experience and meaning into her academic work.

In her doctoral research, Ignacia explores the concept of time, the practice of “binge-watching,” and its underlying human experiences. She aims to reconceptualize binge-watching not merely as a typological behavior but as a rich phenomenon deserving of deeper investigation. She seeks to understand how it influences our perception of time and the emergence of new temporal constructs.

Ignacia’s research presents a twofold argument. First, the way people incorporate binge-watching into their daily lives is intricately linked to their subjective perception of time, as there is no holistic experience of “everydayness.” Second, binge-watching can be understood as generative of distinct temporalities. This occurs through the dimensions of continuity, closure, control, and waiting. These facets of binge-watching are temporal categories anchored in how social actors experience the emplotment of time and narrative.

To support her argument, Ignacia is conducting qualitative, in-depth interviews with thirty Millennials about their binge-watching experiences. The sample consists of individuals aged 30 to 44, identified as more prone to binge-watching, and residing in New York City. This generation has been at the forefront of a significant media shift from traditional broadcasting to digital streaming. By focusing on Millennials in NYC, Ignacia aims to provide valuable insights into the unique experiences of those navigating this transformation in a media-saturated environment. Despite the city's perceived high-speed rhythms and scarce leisure time, these individuals manage the challenges of work, family life, and an ever-growing array of activities.

The research question driving her study is: How do Millennials organize their everyday lives in relation to the experience of binge-watching? Additionally, she investigates what aspects of everyday life might be compromised for binge-watching and whether work-life balance poses any limitations or constraints.