During our last few classes, we have been debating the meaning of entertainments, and what it means to be entertained. Many of us have disagreed on their definitions, but we have all agreed upon the fact that context does play a role in the way we categorize entertainment. When we take into consideration that categorizing entertainment is based on context, we must also acknowledge that these definitions are subjective, and sensitive to many variables. For example, everyone has a different preference as to what they find entertaining. Even if two people agree upon an item that is entertaining, they may enjoy it to a different degree, or even enjoy it for two different reasons. Maybe Person A thinks books are entertaining because he/she likes clearing new vocabulary. On the other hand, Person B may enjoy reading because of an interesting story-line. Variables such as these all lead to different definitions, making the topic subjective to preferences.
I believe that we should define entertainment, and the idea of being entertained separately because they are two very different things. Entertainment is anything that can cause enjoyment to a person regardless of popular opinion. If enjoyment is present, it can be considered as entertainment. Now, the idea of being entertained should be defined on solely and individual level because it is dependent on individual preference. You can decide if something brings you enjoyment. If it does, then it can be categorized as a form of entertainment. However, although it is entertainment, it does not mean that it is entertaining to everyone. As an individual, you may decided if it has entertained you and only you.
So, the idea that entertainment is something that brings enjoyment to any person. And the idea of being entertained is something that can only be determined on an individual level. For example in the article "Pearls before Breakfast: Joshua Bell on the Subway" by Gene Weingarten, the idea of whether Bell's music was entertaining or not was introduced. We should all be able to agree that his performance is in fact a form of entertainment because someone, somewhere finds it enjoyable. However, whether you are entertained by it, or in other words, "Is it entertaining?" is a question that each of us can answer on an individual basis.
You Decide.
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