The word “entertainment” is an umbrella concept that covers an array of activities. For example, children might be entertained by cartoons or playgrounds, while adults may prefer a concert, a play, or a high-quality film. What’s more, the same person might have different tastes depending on their mood; he or she might enjoy a comedy show when feeling low or a documentary when in a contemplative state. Entertainment often evokes complex emotions—joy, sadness, or suspense—and challenges the intellect by posing questions, offering alternative viewpoints, or requiring strategic thinking.
Article by: Laura Martin. This article originally appeared in the November/December 2017 issue of Entertainment Weekly and is reprinted with permission.