Mass entertainment theory

Definition: Theory asserting that television and other mass media. because they relax or otherwise entertain average people, perform a vital social funtion.

Keywords: social behavior, social values

Strengths

• Stresses media's prosocial influence.

• Provides cogent explanation for why people seek entertainment from media.

Weaknesses

• Is too accepting of the status quo.

• Paints negative picture of average people and their use of media.

#Chapter4