The Handbook of Media and Mass Communication Theory presents a comprehensive collection of original essays that focus on all aspects of current and classic theories and practices relating to media and mass communication. * Focuses on all aspects of current and classic theories and practices relating to media and mass communication * Includes essays from a variety of global contexts, from Asia and the Middle East to the Americas * Gives niche theories new life in several essays that use them to illuminate their application in specific contexts * Features coverage of a wide variety of theoretical perspectives * Pays close attention to the use of theory in understanding new communication contexts, such as social media