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.